Applications open for bow hunters, property owners to participate in Iowa City’s Deer Management Program

Bow hunters who are interested in participating in the City's 2025-2026 deer bow hunt program can apply now! Hunt rules and application forms are available on the City website at https://www.icgov.org/deer or at the Iowa City Police Department.

The 2025-2026 deer bow hunt program season will be held Sept. 20, 2025, through Jan. 10, 2026. The bow hunt is part of the City's Long-Term Deer Management Plan, which includes a mix of non-lethal interventions, annual urban bow hunts from 2024 through 2029, and the possibility of a professional sharpshoot, subject to State approval in 2026.

Property owner participation

Hunting is allowed on private property when conducted by the property owner or hunters with permission from the owner. Private property owners who wish to provide land that is eligible to be hunted with their approval may contact the City's Hunt Coordinator, Lt. Zach Diersen, at 319-356-5276 or [email protected] to inquire. In addition, several City-owned properties are also approved for use in the bow hunt this year. Visit our website for a map of eligible public properties.

No bows can be fired within 150 feet of any trail, road, sidewalk, right-of-way, or park unless authorized by the City Council. Additionally, no bows can be fired within 150 feet of a home or property line without an owner's permission. For the full list of rules, along with application forms and information about the urban bow hunt and deer management efforts, visit https://www.icgov.org/deer.

Feedback requested

The City is also collecting feedback about its deer management program and stories and photos of deer in your neighborhood. If you have feedback or photos to share, we encourage you to submit them on to [email protected].