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 2026-2027 deer bow hunt program can apply now! Hunt rules and application forms are available on the City website at www.icgov.org/deer or at the Iowa City Police Department.

The 2026-2027 deer bow hunt program season will be held Sept. 19, 2026, through Jan. 10, 2027. 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, between 2026 and 2029.

Buck Tag and Hunter Appreciation Incentive Programs

For the 2026-2027 season, a hunter who harvests 4 antlerless deer in Iowa City's Deer Management Zone will be eligible for a Buck Incentive Tag for the following season of the City's Urban Bow Hunt. If a hunter harvests another 3 antlerless deer beyond that, the hunter is eligible to receive a $100 gift card to Fin and Feather (125 Highway 1 West, Iowa City). Questions can be directed to [email protected].

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 www.icgov.org/deer.