(1)
Definitions. For the
purpose of this rule:
"Bow and arrow" means a compound, recurve,
or longbow.
"Crossbow" means a weapon consisting of a
bow mounted transversely on a stock or frame and designed to fire a bolt,
arrow, or quarrel by the release of the bow string, which is controlled by a
mechanical or electric trigger and a working safety.
"Handicapped" means a person possessing a
physical impairment of the upper extremities that makes a person physically
incapable of shooting a bow and arrow. This includes difficulty in lifting and
reaching with arms as well as difficulty in handling and fingering.
(2)
Application for
crossbow permit. An individual requesting use of a crossbow for
hunting deer or turkey must submit an application for a crossbow permit on
forms provided by the department. The application must include a statement
signed by the applicant's physician declaring that the individual is not
physically capable of shooting a bow and arrow. The physician shall be a
licensed physician, osteopathic physician, physician assistant, or advanced
registered nurse practitioner. A first-time applicant must submit the crossbow
permit application no later than ten days before the last day of the license
application period for the season the person intends to hunt.
(3)
Crossbow permit-issuance and
use. Approved applicants will be issued a permit authorizing the
individual to hunt deer and turkey with a crossbow. The crossbow permit must be
carried with the license and on the person while hunting deer and turkey and
must be exhibited to a conservation officer upon request.
(4)
Validity and forfeiture of
permit. A permit authorizing the use of a crossbow for hunting deer
and turkey will be valid for as long as the person is incapable of shooting a
bow and arrow. If a conservation officer has probable cause to believe the
person's handicapped status has improved, making it possible for the person to
shoot a bow and arrow, the department may, upon the officer's request, require
the person to obtain in writing a current physician's statement. The physician
shall be a licensed physician, osteopathic physician, physician assistant, or
advanced registered nurse practitioner.
If the person is unable to obtain a current physician's
statement confirming that the person is incapable of shooting a bow and arrow,
the department may initiate action to revoke the permit pursuant to 571-Chapter
7.
(5)
Restrictions. Crossbows equipped with pistol grips and
designed to be fired with one hand are illegal for taking or attempting to take
deer or turkey. All projectiles used in conjunction with a crossbow for deer
hunting must be equipped with a broadhead.
Notes
Iowa Admin. Code r. 571-15.22
ARC 7852B, lAB 6/17/09,
effective 7/22/09
Amended by
IAB
June 8, 2016/Volume XXXVIII, Number 25, effective
7/13/2016
Amended by
IAB
May 3, 2023/Volume XLV, Number 22, effective
6/7/2023
Adopted by
IAB
May 1, 2024/Volume XLVI, Number 22, effective
6/5/2024
