By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Maddy Teka, Esq. | Last reviewed July 01, 2021
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As the national debate regarding gun control and gun ownership shows no signs of cooling down any time soon, states are left to balance both sides in their regulatory statutes (laws). Although the Second Amendment permits citizens to keep and bear arms, states are permitted to outlaw certain weapons and accessories. For example, in Iowa, sawed-off shotguns, machine guns, and silencers are all illegal. This is an introduction to gun control laws in Iowa.
State gun control laws restrict the sale, ownership, and use of firearms. While the Hawkeye State imposes no waiting period for gun purchases, buyers must be of legal age to purchase, can't have a felony conviction on their record, and are limited to certain types of firearms.
The chart below lists the details of Iowa's gun control statutes.
Relevant Statutes (Laws) |
|
|---|---|
Illegal Arms |
The following firearms are illegal to own in Iowa:
|
Waiting Period |
There is no waiting period to purchase a firearm in Iowa. |
Who May Not Own |
You are prohibited from owning a firearm if you:
|
License Required? |
A license is not required to purchase or own a firearm. |
Concealed Carry License Required? |
A concealed carry license is not required. |
Open Carried Allowed? |
Open carry is allowed except in the state capitol building. |
Eligibility for a Concealed Carry License |
You can get a nonprofessional concealed carry license if:
Iowa also recognizes licenses issued by other states. |
Machine Gun Laws |
You are not allowed to own a machine gun in Iowa. |
Penalties for Illegal Firearm Possession |
|
Penalties for Illegal Possession on or Near School Grounds |
Carrying a firearm on or near school grounds is a class D felony. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
The state of Iowa's gun laws coincide with federal firearms statutes that also regulate gun ownership by restricting the kinds of guns a person may legally own. As mentioned above, the Second Amendment allows citizens to own firearms, but the government (both state and federal) are permitted to place some restrictions on the kinds of guns people may own and by whom they may be purchased.
Because federal statutes supersede those of the state, Iowa gun owners should also comply with the federal Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act and the National Firearms Act.
Gun ownership and use is a serious matter. If you or someone you know has been injured in a gun incident, you may have recourse against the manufacturer, distributor, or owner of the gun. You can find additional articles and resources in FindLaw's section on Gun Law. You can also consult with an Iowa attorney if you would like legal advice regarding a gun issue, or if you would like to know your rights and responsibilities as a gun owner.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Iowa attorneys offer free consultations.