Off-Highway Vehicles

An off-highway vehicle on a dirt course
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Off-Highway Vehicles in Iowa

Many Iowans enjoy riding Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) for recreation. Iowa has several designated OHV riding areas, many of which are managed by local clubs, associations or municipal/county governments. The DNR provides law enforcement assistance for these areas. 

Riders should familiarize themselves with the laws and follow safety guidelines for off-highway vehicle use in Iowa to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

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Rules & Regulations

Off Highway Vehicle Reference Guide.pdf
1.21 MB .pdf
  • Resident machines must display a valid, current Iowa DNR registration decal and the registration certificate must be on the operator or machine to operate on public land or a designated riding area.
  • Nonresident machines must display a valid Iowa DNR nonresident user permit on the machine. If the home state requires registration, this must also be displayed on the machine to operate on public land or a designated riding area.

Operation on Roadways

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ATV & OHV Trail Grant Program

The State of Iowa administers a grant program for the acquisition, operation and development of all-terrain vehicles (ATV), off-road motorcycles (ORM), and off-road utility vehicles (ORV) trails and designated OHV parks in the state. This program is funded from off-highway vehicle registration fees. Grant program open for:

  • Political subdivisions
  • Incorporated private organizations

When to Apply

Applications for the 2025 grant cycle must be received by the DNR before 11:59pm (CST) on February 14, 2025.

How to Apply 

The 2025 ATV Grant application is available on the DNR SlideRoom portal.

Program Contact

Iowa Department of Natural Resources: Off-Highway Vehicle Program
6200 Park Ave, Ste 200
Des Moines, IA 50321

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Operator Incident Report

Whenever an ATV, ORM, or ORV is involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to any person or property damage amounting to $1,500 or more, the operator of the vehicle or a person acting for the operator shall immediately notify the county sheriff or another law enforcement agency in the state.

If the accident occurred on public land, a designated riding area, a designated riding trail, or ice under the jurisdiction of the Natural Resource Commission, the operator shall file a report of the accident with the Department of Natural Resources within 72 hours. The report shall be on DNR Operator Incident Report Form 542-8093.

All reports shall be submitted to: 

Iowa DNR State Parks Bureau
6200 Park Ave, Ste 200
Des Moines, Iowa, 50321

All reports must include a full description of the incident. If you have any questions, please call the DNR Des Moines Office at 515-725-8200.

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Special Events Calendar

When individuals and groups want to use public land and water for events, they must apply for use of that resource through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. 

These events are compiled by the Special Events System and are displayed on a calendar of events and can be searched by type, location, and date.

Special Events Permitting

At least 30 days before the scheduled date of a special event, an application must be filed with the DNR using the Special Events web-based application.

For more information, contact DNR Customer Service: 515-725-8200 or webmaster@dnr.iowa.gov.

The Department may authorize the holding of organized special events at the designated OHV parks as defined in Iowa Code Chapter 321I. The Department shall issue permits which address the conduct of special events and shall designate the equipment and facilities necessary for the safe operation of OHVs and for the safety of operators, participants, and observers in the special events. Endurance races, head-to-head competition, and nonmotorized events will not be permitted. A special event shall not be conducted without written authorization of the Department.

Residents participating in a special event must display a current registration on their vehicles. Nonresidents must display a valid, Iowa nonresident user permit on their vehicles.

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OHV Dealers

Want to become an OHV dealer in Iowa? Visit our  OHV dealer registration information to learn more about how to become an OHV dealer and to find your application.

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