The Iowa Natural Resource Commission has approved a rule prohibiting the use of trail cameras in state-managed game areas.
The rule would prohibit trail cameras in game management areas unless their use is specifically authorized through an Iowa Department of Natural Resources permit. Cameras operated by the DNR or its designated agents would also be exempt.
The DNR received 102 public comments about the proposal. Fifty-nine supported prohibiting the cameras, 35 opposed the change and eight requested a modified version of the restriction.
Trail cameras have become increasingly common on public hunting ground. The DNR cited concerns involving privacy, competition among hunters, abandoned equipment and the growing number of cameras placed on state-managed property.
The prohibition concerns state game management areas and does not establish a general ban on cameras placed on private property.
The rule has been approved, but hunters should consult the Iowa DNR for its effective date and final enforcement guidance before the upcoming hunting seasons.