Iowa State Sign Regulations

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Our Iowa State-Specific Signs Compliance – Resource Bulletin will help you understand a variety of signage rules, regulations and requirements enacted in the state. Topics include:

  • No smoking signs
  • Swimming pool signs
  • Concealed weapon signs
  • Cell phone signs
  • Baby surrender signs

Use the Download button to open this bulletin as a pdf file.

Bulletin Overview

No Smoking Signs

The State of Iowa prohibits smoking in public places including bars, restaurants, and public vehicles. Smoking is also prohibited in certain outdoor areas connected with schools, stadiums, restaurants, public transit, and state parks. Exemptions to the statewide ban are granted to hotel/motel rooms, retail tobacco shops, and private clubs. The Iowa Smokefree Air Act (ISAA) became law on 1/1/2008 and is administered by the Department of Public Health. (Iowa Code 142D)

Swimming Pool Signs

Rule 641 of the Iowa Department of Public Health stipulates the rules governing the use of public swimming pools and spas. The code became effective on 5/4/2005 and requires the posting of signs at public swimming pools and spas.

Concealed Weapon Signs

The Iowa Department of Public Safety in chapter 724 of the Iowa Code allows residents of the state to carry a concealed firearm (CCW) provided they have been issued a permit granted by the local city or county in which they reside. Among the requirements for issuing a permit are; an applicant must be at least 18 years old, free from a conviction of a felony, does not have a documented addiction to alcohol, has passed a background check, and has completed a firearm training program. There are certain places such as, schools, casinos, universities, etc. where CCW is forbidden even with a permit. (727.4 & 724.4A)

Cell Phone Signs

The State of Iowa bans the use of hand-held cell phones for texting communications by all drivers of motorized vehicles. Novice drivers are also banned from using hand-held cell phones for voice communication. The law, HB2456, became effective on 4/1/2010. Statute was revised as of July 1, 2017 to also ban use of social media and general internet browsing while driving, as well as increased fines and penalties. (Senate File 234)

Baby Surrender Signs

Since the first baby surrender (safe-haven) law was enacted in Texas in 1999, all U.S. states, as well as the District of Columbia, have passed safe-haven legislation. The laws allow an unharmed infant to be relinquished to the proper authorities.