CHAPTER 321I
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES

Referred to in §232.8, 321.234A, 350.5, 455A.4, 455A.5, 456A.14, 456A.24, 462A.33, 805.16, 903.1

  
     
321I.1  Definitions.
  As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
  1.  a.  “All-terrain vehicle” means a motorized vehicle with not less than three and not more than six nonhighway tires that is limited in engine displacement to less than one thousand cubic centimeters and in total dry weight to less than one thousand two hundred pounds and that has a seat or saddle designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for steering control.
  b.  Off-road motorcycles shall be considered all-terrain vehicles for the purpose of registration. Off-road motorcycles shall also be considered all-terrain vehicles for the purpose of titling if a title has not previously been issued pursuant to chapter 321. An operator of an off-road motorcycle is subject to provisions governing the operation of all-terrain vehicles in this chapter, but is exempt from the education instruction and certification program requirements of sections 321I.25 and 321I.26.
  2.  “‘A’ scale” means the physical scale marked “A” graduated in decibels on a sound level meter which meets the requirements of the American national standards institute, incorporated, publication S1.4-1961, general purpose sound level meters.
  3.  “Commission” means the natural resource commission of the department.
  4.  “Dealer” means a person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or exchanging all-terrain vehicles required to be registered under this chapter and who has an established place of business for that purpose in this state.
  5.  “Department” means the department of natural resources.
  6.  “Designated riding area” means an all-terrain vehicle riding area on any public land or public ice under the jurisdiction of the department that has been designated by the department for all-terrain vehicle use.
  7.  “Designated riding trail” means an all-terrain vehicle riding trail on any public land, private land, or public ice that has been designated by the department, a political subdivision, or a controlling authority for all-terrain vehicle use.
  8.  “Director” means the director of the department.
  9.  “Direct supervision” means to provide supervision of another person while maintaining visual and verbal contact at all times.
  10.  “Distributor” means a person, resident or nonresident, who sells or distributes all-terrain vehicles to all-terrain vehicle dealers in this state or who maintains distributor representatives.
  11.  “Education certificate” means an all-terrain vehicle education certificate, approved by the commission, which is issued to a qualified applicant who is twelve years of age or older.
  12.  “Established place of business” means the place actually occupied either continuously or at regular periods by a dealer or manufacturer where the books and records are kept and the dealer’s or manufacturer’s business is primarily transacted.
  13.  “Manufacturer” means a person engaged in the business of constructing or assembling all-terrain vehicles required to be registered under this chapter and who has an established place of business for that purpose in this state.
  14.  “Nonambulatory person” means an individual with paralysis of the lower half of the body with the involvement of both legs, usually caused by disease of or injury to the spinal cord, or caused by the loss of both legs or the loss of a part of both legs.
  15.  “Nonresident” means a person who is not a resident of this state.
  16.  “Off-road motorcycle” means a two-wheeled motor vehicle that has a seat or saddle designed to be straddled by the operator and handlebars for steering control and that is intended by the manufacturer for use on natural terrain. “Off-road motorcycle” includes a motorcycle that was originally issued a certificate of title and registered for highway use under chapter 321, but which contains design features that enable operation over natural terrain.
  17.  a.  “Off-road utility vehicle” means a motorized vehicle with not less than four and not more than eight nonhighway tires or rubberized tracks that has a seat that is of bucket or bench design, not intended to be straddled by the operator, and a steering wheel or control levers for control. “Off-road utility vehicle” includes the following vehicles:
  (1)  “Off-road utility vehicle — type 1” means an off-road utility vehicle with a total dry weight of one thousand two hundred pounds or less and a width of fifty inches or less.
  (2)  “Off-road utility vehicle — type 2” means an off-road utility vehicle, other than a type 1 off-road utility vehicle, with a total dry weight of two thousand pounds or less, and a width of sixty-five inches or less.
  (3)  “Off-road utility vehicle — type 3” means an off-road utility vehicle with a total dry weight of more than two thousand pounds or a width of more than sixty-five inches, or both.
  b.  The operator of an off-road utility vehicle is subject to provisions governing the operation of all-terrain vehicles in section 321.234A, this chapter, and administrative rules, but is exempt from the education instruction and certification program requirements of sections 321I.25 and 321I.26. An operator of an off-road utility vehicle shall not operate the vehicle on a designated riding area or designated riding trail unless the department has posted signage indicating the riding area or trail is open to the operation of off-road utility vehicles. Off-road utility vehicles are subject to the dealer registration and titling requirements of this chapter. A motorized vehicle that was previously titled or is currently titled under chapter 321 shall not be registered or operated as an off-road utility vehicle.
  18.  “Operate” means to ride in or on, other than as a passenger, use, or control the operation of an all-terrain vehicle in any manner, whether or not the all-terrain vehicle is moving.
  19.  “Operator” means a person who operates or is in actual physical control of an all-terrain vehicle.
  20.  “Owner” means a person, other than a lienholder, having the property right in or title to an all-terrain vehicle. The term includes a person entitled to the use or possession of an all-terrain vehicle subject to an interest in another person, reserved or created by agreement and securing payment or performance of an obligation, but the term excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security.
  21.  “Person” means an individual, partnership, firm, corporation, association, and the state, its agencies, and political subdivisions.
  22.  “Public ice” means any frozen, navigable waters within the territorial limits of this state and the frozen marginal river areas adjacent to this state, other than farm ponds, that are under the jurisdiction of the commission.
  23.  “Public land” means land owned by the federal government, the state, or political subdivisions of the state and land acquired or developed for public recreation pursuant to section 321I.8.
  24.  “Railroad right-of-way” means the full width of property owned, leased, or subject to easement for railroad purposes and is not limited to those areas on which tracks are located.
  25.  “Resident” means as defined in section 483A.1A.
  26.  “Roadway” means that portion of a highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for vehicular travel.
  27.  “Snowmobile” means the same as defined in section 321G.1.
  28.  “Special event” means an organized race, exhibition, or demonstration of limited duration which is conducted on public land, public ice, or a designated riding trail under the jurisdiction of the commission according to a prearranged schedule and in which general public interest is manifested.
  29.  “Street” or “highway” means the entire width between property lines of every way or place of whatever nature when any part thereof is open to the use of the public, as a matter of right, for purposes of vehicular travel, except in public areas in which the boundary shall be thirty-three feet each side of the center line of the roadway.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §44; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §26, 27; 2009 Acts, ch 144, §6, 7; 2012 Acts, ch 1013, §3, 4; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §31 – 34; 2014 Acts, ch 1005, §1; 2014 Acts, ch 1141, §66; 2016 Acts, ch 1073, §106
Referred to in §321G.1, 322F.1, 423.3

     
321I.2  Rules.
  1.  The commission may adopt rules for the following purposes:
  a.  Registration and titling of all-terrain vehicles.
  b.  Use of all-terrain vehicles as far as game and fish resources or habitats are affected.
  c.  Use of all-terrain vehicles on public lands under the jurisdiction of the commission.
  d.  Use of all-terrain vehicles on any waters of the state under the jurisdiction of the commission, while the waters are frozen.
  e.  Establishment of a program of grants, subgrants, and contracts to be administered by the department for the development, maintenance, and operation of designated all-terrain vehicle riding areas and trails by political subdivisions and incorporated private organizations.
  f.  Issuance of education certificates.
  g.  Issuance of competition registrations and the participation of all-terrain vehicles so registered in special events.
  h.  Issuance of annual user permits for nonresidents and establishment of administrative fees for the issuance of the permits.
  i.  Establishment of a certified education course for the safe use and operation of all-terrain vehicles.
  j.  Certification of volunteer all-terrain vehicle education instructors.
  2.  In adopting the rules, consideration shall be given to the need to protect the environment and the public health, safety, and welfare; to protect private property, public parks, and other public lands; to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat; and to promote uniformity of rules relating to the use, operation, and equipment of all-terrain vehicles. The rules shall be in conformance with chapter 17A.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §45; 2005 Acts, ch 20, §8; 2008 Acts, ch 1161, §3; 2009 Acts, ch 144, §8 – 10; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §35
Referred to in §321I.25, 321I.26

     
321I.3  Registration required — penalties.
  1.  Each all-terrain vehicle used on public land, public ice, or a designated riding trail of this state shall be currently registered. A person shall not operate, maintain, or give permission for the operation or maintenance of an all-terrain vehicle on public land, public ice, or a designated riding trail unless the all-terrain vehicle is registered in accordance with this chapter or applicable federal laws or in accordance with an approved numbering system of another state and the evidence of registration is in full force and effect. An all-terrain vehicle registered in another state must also be issued a user permit in this state in accordance with this chapter.
  2.  A violation of subsection 1 is punishable as a scheduled violation under section 805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph “a”. When the scheduled fine is paid, the violator shall submit proof to the department that a valid registration or user permit has been obtained by providing a copy of the registration or user permit to the department within thirty days of the date the fine is paid. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a simple misdemeanor.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §46; 2005 Acts, ch 3, §62; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §28; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §36
Referred to in §805.8B(2A)(a)

  
     
321I.4  Registration — fee.
  1.  The owner of each all-terrain vehicle required to be registered shall register it annually with the department through a county recorder. The department shall develop and maintain an electronic system for the registration of all-terrain vehicles pursuant to this chapter. The department shall establish forms and procedures as necessary for the registration of all-terrain vehicles.
  2.  a.  The owner of the all-terrain vehicle shall file an application for registration with the department through the county recorder of the county of residence, or in the case of a nonresident owner, in the county of primary use, in the manner established by the commission. The application shall be completed by the owner and shall be accompanied by a fee of fifteen dollars and a writing fee as provided in section 321I.29. An all-terrain vehicle shall not be registered by the county recorder until the county recorder is presented with receipts, bills of sale, or other satisfactory evidence that the sales or use tax has been paid for the purchase of the all-terrain vehicle or that the owner is exempt from paying the tax. An all-terrain vehicle that has an expired registration certificate from another state may be registered in this state upon proper application, payment of all applicable registration and writing fees, and payment of a penalty of five dollars.
  b.  If the owner of the all-terrain vehicle is unable to present satisfactory evidence that the sales or use tax has been paid, the county recorder shall collect the tax. On or before the tenth day of each month, the county recorder shall remit to the department of revenue the amount of the taxes collected during the preceding month, in a manner prescribed by the department.
  3.  Upon receipt of the application in approved form accompanied by the required fees, the county recorder shall issue to the applicant a registration certificate and registration decal. The registration decal shall be displayed on the all-terrain vehicle as provided in section 321I.6. The registration certificate shall be carried either in the all-terrain vehicle or on the person of the operator of the all-terrain vehicle when in use. The operator of an all-terrain vehicle shall exhibit the registration certificate to a peace officer upon request, to a person injured in an accident involving an all-terrain vehicle, to the owner or operator of another all-terrain vehicle or the owner of personal or real property when the all-terrain vehicle is involved in a collision or accident of any nature with another all-terrain vehicle or the property of another person, or to the property owner or tenant when the all-terrain vehicle is being operated on private property without permission from the property owner or tenant.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §47, 97; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §29; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §37; 2020 Acts, ch 1118, §35; 2021 Acts, ch 86, §37
Referred to in §331.602, 331.605

     
321I.5  Nonresident user permits.
  1.  A nonresident wishing to operate an all-terrain vehicle, other than an all-terrain vehicle registered pursuant to this chapter, on public land, public ice, or a designated riding trail of this state shall obtain a user permit from the department. A user permit shall be issued for use on only one all-terrain vehicle and is not transferable. A user permit shall be valid for the calendar year or time period specified in the permit.
  2.  A county recorder or a license agent designated by the director pursuant to section 483A.11 may issue user permits. The fee for a user permit shall be fifteen dollars plus an administrative fee established by the commission. A county recorder or a license agent shall retain a writing fee from the sale of each user permit as provided in section 321I.29.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §48; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §30; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §38
Referred to in §321I.8, 331.602, 331.605

     
321I.6  Display of registration and user permit decals.
  The owner shall display the registration decal or nonresident user permit decal on an all-terrain vehicle in the manner prescribed by rules of the commission.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §49; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §31
Referred to in §321I.4, 805.8B(2A)(e)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph e 

     
321I.7  Registration — renewal.
  1.  a.  Every all-terrain vehicle registration certificate and registration decal issued expires at midnight December 31 unless sooner terminated or discontinued in accordance with this chapter or rules of the commission. After the first day of September each year, an unregistered all-terrain vehicle may be registered or a registration may be renewed for the subsequent year beginning January 1.
  b.  After the first day of September an unregistered all-terrain vehicle may be registered for the remainder of the current registration year and for the subsequent registration year in one transaction. The fee shall be five dollars for the remainder of the current year, in addition to the registration fee of fifteen dollars for the subsequent year beginning January 1, and a writing fee as provided in section 321I.29.
  2.  An expired all-terrain vehicle registration may be renewed for the same fee as if the owner is securing the original registration plus a penalty of five dollars and a writing fee as provided in section 321I.29.
  3.  Duplicate registrations may be issued by a county recorder or a license agent upon the payment of a five dollar fee plus a writing fee as provided in section 321I.29.
  4.  A motorcycle, as defined in section 321.1, subsection 40, paragraph “a”, may be registered as an all-terrain vehicle as provided in this section. A motorcycle registered as an all-terrain vehicle may participate in all programs established for all-terrain vehicles under this chapter except for the education instruction and certification program.
  5.  A county recorder or a license agent designated by the director pursuant to section 483A.11 may issue all-terrain vehicle and off-road utility vehicle registration renewals electronically pursuant to rules adopted by the commission. The fee for a registration renewal issued using an electronic system is fifteen dollars plus an administrative fee established by the commission and a writing fee as provided in section 321I.29.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §50; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §32; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §39; 2012 Acts, ch 1138, §65; 2023 Acts, ch 59, §1
Referred to in §331.602
Subsection 5 amended

     
321I.8  Fees remitted to commission — appropriation.
  1.  A county recorder or license agent shall remit to the commission the all-terrain vehicle fees collected by the recorder or license agent in the manner and time prescribed by the department.
  2.  The department shall remit the fees, including user fees collected pursuant to section 321I.5, to the treasurer of state, who shall place the money in a special all-terrain vehicle fund. The money is appropriated to the department for the all-terrain vehicle programs of the state. The programs shall include grants, subgrants, contracts, or cost-sharing of all-terrain vehicle programs with political subdivisions or incorporated private organizations or both in accordance with rules adopted by the commission. All-terrain vehicle fees may be used for the establishment, maintenance, and operation of all-terrain vehicle recreational riding areas through the awarding of grants administered by the department, but shall not be used for law enforcement purposes outside of a designated off-highway vehicle recreational riding area or for purchasing, installing, or maintaining signs along a highway outside of a designated off-highway vehicle recreational riding area. All-terrain vehicle recreational riding areas established, maintained, or operated by the use of such grants shall not be operated for profit. All programs using cost-sharing, grants, subgrants, or contracts shall establish and implement an education instruction program either singly or in cooperation with other all-terrain vehicle programs. All-terrain vehicle fees may be used to support all-terrain vehicle programs on a usage basis. At least fifty percent of the special fund shall be available for political subdivisions or incorporated private organizations or both. Moneys from the special fund not used by the political subdivisions or incorporated private organizations or both shall remain in the fund and may be used by the department for the administration of the all-terrain vehicle programs. Notwithstanding section 8.33, moneys in the special fund shall not revert to the general fund of the state at the end of a fiscal year. Notwithstanding section 12C.7, subsection 2, interest or earnings on moneys in the special fund shall remain in the fund.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §51; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §33; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §40; 2022 Acts, ch 1105, §7
Referred to in §321I.1, 321I.15A, 321I.17, 321I.32, 321I.34, 331.427

     
321I.9  Exempt vehicles.
  Registration shall not be required for the following described all-terrain vehicles:
  1.  All-terrain vehicles owned by the United States, this state, or another state, or by a governmental subdivision thereof, and used for enforcement, search and rescue, or official research and studies, but not for recreational or commercial purposes.
  2.  All-terrain vehicles used in accordance with section 321.234A, subsection 1, paragraph “a”.
  3.  All-terrain vehicles used exclusively as farm implements.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §52; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §34; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §41

  
     
321I.10  Operation on roadways, highways, and trails.
  1.  A person shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle upon roadways or highways except as provided in section 321.234A and this section.
  2.  A registered all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle may be operated on an undivided two-lane primary highway that is not part of the interstate road system over the most direct and accessible route between any of the following locations:
  a.  An all-terrain vehicle park or trail.
  b.  A secondary road on which such vehicles are authorized to operate under subsection 3.
  c.  A city street on which such vehicles are authorized to operate under subsection 4.
  d.  The vehicle operator’s residence.
  3.  a.  A registered all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle may be operated on any of the following secondary roads:
  (1)  An unpaved secondary road.
  (2)  A paved, undivided two-lane secondary road over the most direct and accessible route between any of the following locations:
  (a)  An all-terrain vehicle park or trail.
  (b)  Another secondary road on which such vehicles are authorized to operate under this paragraph.
  (c)  A city street on which such vehicles are authorized to operate under subsection 4.
  (d)  The vehicle operator’s residence.
  (3)  A paved, undivided secondary road or segment thereof, if authorized by the county board of supervisors. The board shall evaluate the traffic conditions on all such secondary roads under its jurisdiction and designate roadways on which all-terrain vehicles or off-road utility vehicles may be operated without unduly interfering with or constituting an undue hazard to conventional motor vehicle traffic. In designating such roadways, the board may authorize all-terrain vehicles and off-road utility vehicles to stop at service stations or convenience stores along a designated roadway.
  b.  Notwithstanding paragraph “a”, a county may prohibit the operation of all-terrain vehicles and off-road utility vehicles on a secondary road or segment thereof under its jurisdiction as follows:
  (1)  When the secondary road or segment thereof is closed to motor vehicle traffic pursuant to section 306.41.
  (2)  When the secondary road or segment thereof is designated as a detour route pursuant to section 306.41.
  (3)  For any other secondary road or segment thereof, for no more than seven consecutive days and no more than thirty days in a calendar year when the prohibited days are established by ordinance.
  4.  A city may regulate the operation of registered all-terrain vehicles and off-road utility vehicles and may designate streets under the jurisdiction of the city within its corporate limits, and two-lane primary and secondary road extensions in the city, which may be used for the operation of such vehicles. In designating such streets, the city may authorize all-terrain vehicles and off-road utility vehicles to stop at service stations or convenience stores along a designated street. However, a city shall not charge a fee to operate a registered all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle within the city.
  5.  All-terrain vehicles shall not be operated on snowmobile trails except where designated by the controlling authority and the primary snowmobile trail sponsor.
  6.  An all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle may make a direct crossing of a highway that is not part of the interstate road system provided all of the following occur:
  a.  The crossing is made at an angle of approximately ninety degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing.
  b.  The all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle is brought to a complete stop before crossing the shoulder or main traveled way of the highway.
  c.  The driver yields the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic which constitutes an immediate hazard.
  d.  In crossing a divided highway, the crossing is made only at an intersection of such highway with another public street or highway.
  e.  The crossing is made from a street, roadway, or highway on which the all-terrain vehicle or off-road utility vehicle is authorized to operate to a street, roadway, or highway on which such vehicle is authorized to operate.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §53; 2004 Acts, ch 1175, §371; 2005 Acts, ch 20, §9; 2006 Acts, ch 1030, §37; 2009 Acts, ch 179, §125; 2010 Acts, ch 1186, §10; 2017 Acts, ch 32, §2; 2022 Acts, ch 1105, §8 – 11
Referred to in §321.234A, 331.362, 805.8B(2A)(b)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph b 

     
321I.11  Accident reports.
  If an all-terrain vehicle is involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to anyone or property damage amounting to one thousand five hundred dollars or more, either the operator or someone acting for the operator shall immediately notify the county sheriff or another law enforcement agency in the state. If the accident occurred on public land, public ice, or a designated riding trail under the jurisdiction of the commission, the operator shall file with the commission a report of the accident, within seventy-two hours, containing information as the commission may require. All other accidents shall be reported as required under section 321.266.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §54; 2010 Acts, ch 1157, §3; 2011 Acts, ch 38, §22; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §42

     
321I.12  Mufflers required — inspections.
  1.  An all-terrain vehicle shall not be operated without suitable and effective muffling devices. An all-terrain vehicle shall comply with the sound level standards and testing procedures established by the society of automotive engineers under SAE J1287.
  2.  The commission may adopt rules with respect to the inspection of all-terrain vehicles and testing of their mufflers.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §55; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §35
Referred to in §805.8B(2A)(b)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph b 

     
321I.13   Headlight — taillight — brakes.
  Every all-terrain vehicle operated during the hours of darkness shall display a lighted headlight and taillight. Every all-terrain vehicle shall be equipped with brakes.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §56; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §43
Referred to in §805.8B(2A)(c)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph c 

  
     
321I.14  Unlawful operation.
  1.  A person shall not drive or operate an all-terrain vehicle:
  a.  At a rate of speed greater than reasonable or proper under all existing circumstances.
  b.  In a careless, reckless, or negligent manner so as to endanger the person or property of another or to cause injury or damage thereto.
  c.  While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or narcotics or habit-forming drugs.
  d.  Without a lighted headlight and taillight from sunset to sunrise and at such other times when conditions provide insufficient lighting to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles at a distance of five hundred feet ahead.
  e.  In any tree nursery or planting in a manner which damages or destroys growing stock.
  f.  On any public land, public ice, or designated riding trail, in violation of official signs of the commission prohibiting such operation in the interest of safety for persons, property, or the environment. Any officer appointed by the commission may post an official sign in an emergency for the protection of persons, property, or the environment.
  g.  In any park, wildlife area, preserve, refuge, game management area, or any portion of a meandered stream, or any portion of the bed of a nonmeandered stream which has been identified as a navigable stream or river by rule adopted by the department and which is covered by water, except on designated riding areas and designated riding trails. This paragraph does not prohibit the use of ford crossings of public roads or any other ford crossing when used for agricultural purposes; the operation of construction vehicles engaged in lawful construction, repair, or maintenance in a streambed; or the operation of all-terrain vehicles on ice.
  h.  Upon an operating railroad right-of-way. An all-terrain vehicle may be driven directly across a railroad right-of-way only at an established crossing and, notwithstanding any other provisions of law, may, if necessary, use the improved portion of the established crossing after yielding to all oncoming traffic. This paragraph does not apply to a law enforcement officer or railroad employee in the lawful discharge of the officer’s or employee’s duties or to an employee of a utility with authority to enter upon the railroad right-of-way in the lawful performance of the employee’s duties.
  2.  a.  A person shall not operate or ride an all-terrain vehicle with a firearm in the person’s possession unless it is unloaded and enclosed in a carrying case, except as otherwise provided. However, a nonambulatory person may carry an uncased and unloaded firearm while operating or riding an all-terrain vehicle.
  b.  (1)  A person may operate or ride an all-terrain vehicle with a loaded firearm, whether concealed or not, without a permit to carry weapons, if the person operates or rides on land owned, possessed, or rented by the person and the person’s conduct is otherwise lawful.
  (2)  A person may operate or ride an all-terrain vehicle with a loaded pistol or revolver, whether concealed or not, if the person is operating or riding the all-terrain vehicle on land that is not owned, possessed, or rented by the person, and the person’s conduct is otherwise lawful.
  c.  A person shall not discharge a firearm while on an all-terrain vehicle, except that a nonambulatory person may discharge a firearm from an all-terrain vehicle while lawfully hunting if the person is not operating or riding a moving all-terrain vehicle.
  3.  a.  A person shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle with more persons on the vehicle than it was designed to carry.
  b.  Paragraph “a” does not apply to a person who operates an all-terrain vehicle as part of a farm operation as defined in section 352.2.
  4.  A person shall not operate an off-road utility vehicle on a designated riding area or designated riding trail unless the riding area or trail is signed by the department as open to off-road utility vehicle operation.
  5.  A person shall not operate a vehicle other than an all-terrain vehicle on a designated riding area or designated riding trail unless the riding area or trail is signed by the department as open to such other use.
  6.  As used in this section, “rented by the person” includes a person who does not necessarily rent the land but who principally provides labor for the production of crops located on agricultural land or for the production of livestock principally located on agricultural land. The person must personally provide such labor on a regular, continuous, and substantial basis.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §57; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §36, 37; 2008 Acts, ch 1161, §4; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §44; 2016 Acts, ch 1070, §2; 2017 Acts, ch 29, §99, 100; 2017 Acts, ch 69, §47; 2018 Acts, ch 1058, §3, 4; 2018 Acts, ch 1172, §29, 30
Referred to in §321I.15A, 805.8B(2A)(b)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph b 

     
321I.15  Penalty.
  1.  A person who violates this chapter or a rule of the commission or director of transportation is guilty of a simple misdemeanor.
  2.  Chapter 232 shall have no application in the prosecution of offenses which are committed in violation of this chapter, and which constitute simple misdemeanors.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §58; 2010 Acts, ch 1061, §180
Referred to in §321I.15A

     
321I.15A  Civil penalty and restitution.
  Upon conviction for a violation of section 321I.14, subsection 1, paragraph “e”, “f”, or “g”, the defendant, in addition to any other penalty including the criminal penalty provided in section 321I.15, shall be subject to civil remedies as follows:
  1.  a.  The court may assess the defendant a civil penalty of two hundred fifty dollars. The civil penalty shall be deposited in the special all-terrain vehicle fund created pursuant to section 321I.8.
  b.  The court may order the defendant to pay restitution to the titleholder of land for damages caused by the defendant’s violation, to the extent that the titleholder consents to joining the action, and the titleholder’s damages are established at trial. If the titleholder is the state, the amount of restitution ordered to be paid by the court shall be deposited in the special all-terrain vehicle fund created pursuant to section 321I.8. If the titleholder is a governmental entity other than the state, the moneys shall be paid to the governmental entity for deposit in any fund or account from which moneys are used for the maintenance, repair, or improvement of the land where the damage occurred.
  2.  The attorney general or a county attorney who prosecutes the criminal violation shall execute the civil judgment, in cooperation with the commission, as any other civil judgment.
2008 Acts, ch 1161, §5

     
321I.16  Operation pending registration.
  The commission shall furnish all-terrain vehicle dealers with pasteboard cards bearing the words “registration applied for” and space for the date of purchase. An unregistered all-terrain vehicle sold by a dealer shall bear one of these cards which entitles the purchaser to operate it for forty-five days immediately following the purchase. The purchaser of a registered all-terrain vehicle may operate it for forty-five days immediately following the purchase without having completed a transfer of registration. An all-terrain vehicle dealer shall make application and pay all registration and title fees if applicable on behalf of the purchaser of an all-terrain vehicle.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §59; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §38

     
321I.17  Special events.
  The department may authorize the holding of organized special events as defined in this chapter within this state. The department shall adopt rules relating to the conduct of special events held under department permits and designating the equipment and facilities necessary for the safe operation of all-terrain vehicles, off-road motorcycles, and off-road utility vehicles and for the safety of operators, participants, and observers in the special events. A special event may require an entrance fee set by the organizer of the special event. The department may require that part of the entrance fee be credited to pay costs of all-terrain vehicle programs authorized pursuant to section 321I.8. At least thirty days before the scheduled date of a special event in this state, an application shall be filed with the department for authorization to conduct the special event. The application shall set forth the date, time, and location of the proposed special event and any other information the department requires. The special event shall not be conducted without written authorization of the department.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §60; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §45

     
321I.18  Violation of stop signal.
  A person who has received a visual or audible signal from a peace officer to come to a stop shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle in willful or wanton disregard of the signal, interfere with or endanger the officer or any other person or vehicle, increase speed, or attempt to flee or elude the officer.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §61; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §46
Referred to in §805.8B(2A)(f)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph f 

     
321I.19  Negligence.
  The owner and operator of an all-terrain vehicle are liable for any injury or damage occasioned by the negligent operation of the all-terrain vehicle. The owner of an all-terrain vehicle shall be liable for any such injury or damage only if the owner was the operator of the all-terrain vehicle at the time the injury or damage occurred or if the operator had the owner’s consent to operate the all-terrain vehicle at the time the injury or damage occurred.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §62

     
321I.20  Rented all-terrain vehicles.
  1.  The owner of a rented all-terrain vehicle shall keep a record of the name and address of each person renting the all-terrain vehicle, its registration certificate, the departure date and time, and the expected time of return. The records shall be preserved for six months.
  2.  The owner of an all-terrain vehicle operated for hire shall not permit the use or operation of a rented all-terrain vehicle unless it has been provided with all equipment required by this chapter or rules of the commission or the director of transportation, properly installed and in good working order.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §63; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §39
Referred to in §805.8B(2A)(d)
For applicable scheduled fines, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph d 

     
321I.21  Minors under twelve — supervision.
  A person under twelve years of age shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle, including an off-road motorcycle, on a designated riding area or designated riding trail or on public land or public ice unless one of the following applies:
  1.  The person is taking a prescribed education training course and the operation is under the direct supervision of a certified all-terrain vehicle education instructor.
  2.  The operation is under the direct supervision of a responsible parent or guardian of at least eighteen years of age who is experienced in all-terrain vehicle operation or off-road motorcycle operation and who possesses a valid driver’s license as defined in section 321.1.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §64; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §40; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §47, 48
Referred to in §805.8B(2A)(g)
For applicable scheduled fine, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph g

     
321I.22  Manufacturer, distributor, or dealer — special registration.
  1.  A manufacturer, distributor, or dealer owning an all-terrain vehicle required to be registered under this chapter may operate the all-terrain vehicle for purposes of transporting, testing, demonstrating, or selling it without the all-terrain vehicle being registered, except that a special registration decal issued to the owner as provided in this chapter shall be displayed on the all-terrain vehicle in the manner prescribed by rules of the commission. The special registration decal shall not be used on an all-terrain vehicle offered for hire or for any work or service performed by a manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
  2.  Every manufacturer, distributor, or dealer shall register with the department by making application to the commission, upon forms prescribed by the commission, for a special registration certificate and decal. The applicant shall pay a registration fee of forty-five dollars and submit reasonable proof of the applicant’s status as a bona fide manufacturer, distributor, or dealer as may be required by the commission.
  3.  The commission, upon granting an application, shall issue to the applicant a special registration certificate and decal. The special registration certificate shall contain the applicant’s name, address, and general identification number; the word “manufacturer”, “dealer”, or “distributor”; and other information the commission prescribes.
  4.  The commission shall also issue duplicate special registration certificates and decals which shall have displayed thereon the general identification number assigned to the applicant. A county recorder may issue duplicate special registration certificates and decals electronically pursuant to rules adopted by the commission. The fee for each additional duplicate special registration certificate and decal shall be five dollars plus a writing fee.
  5.  Each special registration certificate issued under this section shall be for a period of three years and shall expire on December 31 of the renewal year. A new special registration certificate for the three-year renewal period may be obtained upon application to the commission and payment of the fee provided by law. A county recorder may issue special registration certificate renewals electronically pursuant to rules adopted by the commission.
  6.  If a manufacturer, distributor, or dealer has an established place of business in more than one location, the manufacturer, distributor, or dealer shall secure a separate and distinct special registration certificate and general identification number for each place of business.
  7.  A dealer shall make application and pay all registration and title fees if applicable on behalf of the purchaser of an all-terrain vehicle. If the registration has expired while in the dealer’s possession, the purchaser may renew the registration for the same fee and writing fee as if the purchaser is securing the original registration.
  8.  Nothing in this section shall prohibit a dealer from obtaining a new registration and transfer of registration in the same manner as other purchasers.
  9.  The commission may adopt rules consistent with this chapter establishing minimum requirements for dealers. In adopting such rules, the commission shall consider the need to protect persons, property, and the environment and to promote uniformity of practices relating to the sale and use of all-terrain vehicles. The commission may also adopt rules providing for the suspension or revocation of a dealer’s special registration certificate issued pursuant to this section.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §65; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §41 – 45; 2009 Acts, ch 144, §11; 2010 Acts, ch 1069, §49; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §49
Referred to in §331.602, 805.8B(2A)(h)
For applicable scheduled fine, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph h 

  
     
321I.23  Limitation of liability by public bodies and adjoining owners.
  1.  The state, its political subdivisions, and the owners or tenants of property adjoining public lands or the right-of-way of a public highway and their agents and employees owe no duty of care to keep the public lands, ditches, or land contiguous to a highway or roadway under the control of the state or a political subdivision safe for entry or use by persons operating an all-terrain vehicle, or to give any warning of a dangerous condition, use, structure, or activity on the premises to persons entering for such purposes, except in the case of willful or malicious failure to guard or warn against a dangerous condition, use, structure, or activity. The state, its political subdivisions, and the owners or tenants of property adjoining public lands or the right-of-way of a public highway and their agents and employees are not liable for actions taken to allow or facilitate the use of public lands, ditches, or land contiguous to a highway or roadway except in the case of a willful or malicious failure to guard or warn against a dangerous condition, use, structure, or activity.
  2.  This section does not create a duty of care or ground of liability on behalf of the state, its political subdivisions, or the owners or tenants of property adjoining public lands or the right-of-way of a public highway and their agents and employees for injury to persons or property in the operation of all-terrain vehicles in a ditch or on land contiguous to a highway or roadway under the control of the state or a political subdivision. The state, its political subdivisions, and the owners or tenants of property adjoining public lands or the right-of-way of a public highway and their agents and employees are not liable for the operation of an all-terrain vehicle in violation of this chapter.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §66; 2018 Acts, ch 1041, §127

     
321I.24  Recreational riding area — limitation of liability of prior landowners.
  Prior owners of land on which an all-terrain vehicle recreational riding area is established, maintained, or operated owe no duty of care to keep the land safe for entry or use by persons operating an all-terrain vehicle or to give any warning of a dangerous condition, use, structure, or activity on such premises that would make the land unsafe for all-terrain vehicle usage.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §67

     
321I.25  Course of instruction.
  1.  The commission shall provide, by rules adopted pursuant to section 321I.2, for the establishment of certified courses of instruction to be conducted throughout the state for the safe use and operation of all-terrain vehicles. The curriculum shall include instruction in the lawful and safe use, operation, and equipping of all-terrain vehicles consistent with this chapter and rules adopted by the commission. The commission may establish a fee for the course which shall not exceed the actual cost of instruction minus moneys received by the department from education certificate fees under section 321I.26.
  2.  The commission may certify any experienced, qualified operator to be an instructor of a class established under subsection 1. Each instructor shall be at least eighteen years of age.
  3.  Upon completion of the course of instruction, the commission shall provide for the administration of either a written test or the demonstration of adequate riding skills to any student who wishes to qualify for an education certificate.
  4.  The commission shall provide education material relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles for the use of nonpublic or public elementary and secondary schools in this state.
  5.  The department may develop requirements and standards for online education offerings. Only vendors who have entered into a memorandum of understanding with the department shall be permitted to offer an online course that results in the issuance of an education certificate approved by the commission. Vendors may charge for their courses and collect the education certificate fee required under section 321I.26, subsection 2, on behalf of the department as agreed to in the memorandum of understanding.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §68; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §46; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §50
Referred to in §321I.1

     
321I.26   Education certificate — fee.
  1.  A person twelve years of age or older but less than eighteen years of age shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle on public land, public ice, a designated riding trail, or land purchased with all-terrain vehicle registration funds in this state without obtaining a valid education certificate approved by the department and having the certificate in the person’s possession.
  2.  Upon successful completion of the course and payment of a fee of five dollars, a qualified applicant shall be issued an education certificate which is valid until the certificate is suspended or revoked by the director for a violation of a provision of this chapter or a rule adopted pursuant to this chapter.
  3.  Any person who is required to have an education certificate under this chapter and who has completed a course of instruction established under section 321I.2, subsection 1, paragraph “i”, including the successful passage of an examination which includes either a written test relating to such course of instruction or the demonstration of adequate riding skills, shall be considered qualified to receive an education certificate.
  4.  The certificate fees collected under this section shall be credited to the special all-terrain vehicle fund and shall be used for educational programs.
  5.  A valid all-terrain vehicle safety or education certificate or license issued by a governmental authority of another state shall be considered a valid certificate or license in this state if the certification or licensing requirements of the governmental authority are substantially the same as the requirements of this chapter as determined by the commission.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §69; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §47; 2009 Acts, ch 144, §12; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §51
Referred to in §321I.1, 321I.25, 805.8B(2A)(g)
For applicable scheduled fine, see §805.8B, subsection 2A, paragraph g 

     
321I.27  Stopping and inspecting — warnings.
  A peace officer may stop and inspect an all-terrain vehicle operated, parked, or stored on public streets, highways, public lands, public ice, or designated riding trails of the state to determine if the all-terrain vehicle is registered, numbered, or equipped as required by this chapter and commission rules. The officer shall not inspect an area that is not essential to determine compliance with the requirements. If the officer determines that the all-terrain vehicle is not in compliance, the officer may issue a warning memorandum to the operator and forward a copy to the commission. The warning memorandum shall indicate the items found not in compliance and shall direct the owner or operator of the all-terrain vehicle to have the all-terrain vehicle in compliance and return a copy of the warning memorandum with the proof of compliance to the commission within fourteen days. If the proof of compliance is not provided within fourteen days, the owner or operator is in violation of this chapter.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §70; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §52

     
321I.28  Termination of use.
  A person who receives a warning memorandum for an all-terrain vehicle shall stop using the all-terrain vehicle as soon as possible and shall not operate it on public streets, highways, public lands, public ice, or designated riding trails of the state until the all-terrain vehicle is in compliance.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §71; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §53

  
     
321I.29  Writing fees.
  1.  a.  The county recorder shall collect a writing fee of two dollars for each privilege under this chapter.
  b.  Writing fees collected or retained by the county recorder under this chapter shall be deposited in the general fund of the county.
  2.  a.  A license agent shall collect a writing fee of one dollar for an all-terrain vehicle registration or for renewal of a registration issued by the license agent.
  b.  A license agent shall retain a writing fee of one dollar from the sale of each user permit issued by the license agent.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §72; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §48; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §54; 2023 Acts, ch 71, §106, 107
Referred to in §321I.4, 321I.5, 321I.7, 321I.31, 321I.33, 321I.34
Subsection 1 amended

     
321I.30  Consistent local laws — special local rules.
  1.  This chapter and other applicable laws of this state shall govern the operation, equipment, numbering, and all other matters relating to an all-terrain vehicle when the all-terrain vehicle is operated or maintained in this state. However, this chapter does not prevent the adoption of an ordinance or local law relating to the operation or equipment of all-terrain vehicles. The ordinances or local laws are operative only so long as they are not inconsistent with this chapter or the rules adopted by the commission.
  2.  A subdivision of this state, after public notice by publication in a newspaper having a general circulation in the subdivision, may make formal application to the commission for special rules concerning the operation of all-terrain vehicles within the territorial limits of the subdivision and shall provide the commission with the reasons the special rules are necessary.
  3.  The commission, upon application by local authorities and in conformity with this chapter, may make special rules concerning the operation of all-terrain vehicles within the territorial limits of a subdivision of this state.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §73

     
321I.31  Owner’s certificate of title — in general.
  1.  The owner of an all-terrain vehicle acquired on or after January 1, 2000, other than an all-terrain vehicle used exclusively as a farm implement or a motorcycle previously issued a title pursuant to chapter 321, shall apply to the county recorder of the county in which the owner resides for a certificate of title for the all-terrain vehicle. The owner of an all-terrain vehicle used exclusively as a farm implement may obtain a certificate of title. A person who owns an all-terrain vehicle that is not required to have a certificate of title may apply for and receive a certificate of title for the all-terrain vehicle and, subsequently, the all-terrain vehicle shall be subject to the requirements of this chapter as if the all-terrain vehicle were required to be titled. All all-terrain vehicles that are titled shall be registered.
  2.  A certificate of title shall contain the information and shall be issued on a form the department prescribes.
  3.  An owner of an all-terrain vehicle shall apply to the county recorder for issuance of a certificate of title within thirty days after acquisition. The application shall be on forms the department prescribes and accompanied by the required fee specified in section 321I.32 and the writing fee specified in section 321I.29. The application shall include a certification signed in writing containing substantially the representation that statements made are true and correct to the best of the applicant’s knowledge, information, and belief, under penalty of perjury. The application shall contain the date of sale and gross price of the all-terrain vehicle or the fair market value if no sale immediately preceded the transfer and any additional information the department requires. If the application is made for an all-terrain vehicle last previously registered or titled in another state or foreign country, the application shall contain this information and any other information the department requires.
  4.  If a dealer buys or acquires an all-terrain vehicle for resale, the dealer may apply for and obtain a certificate of title as provided in this chapter. If a dealer buys or acquires a used all-terrain vehicle, the dealer may apply for a certificate of title in the dealer’s name within thirty days. If a dealer buys or acquires a new all-terrain vehicle for resale, the dealer may apply for a certificate of title in the dealer’s name.
  5.  A manufacturer or dealer shall not transfer ownership of a new all-terrain vehicle without supplying the transferee with the manufacturer’s or importer’s certificate of origin signed by the manufacturer’s or importer’s authorized agent. The certificate shall contain information the department requires. The department may adopt rules providing for the issuance of a certificate of origin for an all-terrain vehicle by the department upon good cause shown by the owner.
  6.  A dealer transferring ownership of an all-terrain vehicle under this chapter shall assign the title to the new owner, or in the case of a new all-terrain vehicle, assign the certificate of origin. Within thirty days the dealer shall forward all moneys and applications to the county recorder.
  7.  The county recorder shall maintain an electronic record of any certificate of title which the county recorder issues until the certificate of title has been inactive for five years. When issuing a title for a new all-terrain vehicle, the county recorder shall obtain and keep the certificate of origin on file. When issuing a title and registration for a used all-terrain vehicle for which there is no title or registration, the county recorder shall obtain and keep on file the affidavit for the unregistered and untitled all-terrain vehicle.
  8.  Once titled, a person shall not sell or transfer ownership of an all-terrain vehicle without delivering to the purchaser or transferee a certificate of title with an assignment on it showing title in the purchaser’s or transferee’s name. A person shall not purchase or otherwise acquire an all-terrain vehicle without obtaining a certificate of title for it in that person’s name.
  9.  If the county recorder is not satisfied as to the ownership of the all-terrain vehicle or that there are no undisclosed security interests in the all-terrain vehicle, the county recorder may issue a certificate of title for the all-terrain vehicle but, as a condition of such issuance, may require the applicant to file with the department a bond in the form prescribed by the department and executed by the applicant, and also executed by a person authorized to conduct a surety business in this state. The form and amount of the bond shall be established by rule of the department. The bond shall be conditioned to indemnify any prior owner and secured party and any subsequent purchaser of the all-terrain vehicle or person acquiring any security interest in the all-terrain vehicle, and their respective successors in interest, against any expense, loss, or damage, including reasonable attorney fees, by reason of the issuance of the certificate of title of the all-terrain vehicle or on account of any defect in or undisclosed security interest upon the right, title, and interest of the applicant in and to the all-terrain vehicle. Any such interested person has a right of action to recover on the bond for any breach of its conditions, but the aggregate liability of the surety to all persons shall not exceed the amount of the bond. The bond shall be returned at the end of three years or prior thereto if the all-terrain vehicle is no longer registered in this state and the certificate of title is surrendered to the department, unless the department has been notified of the pendency of an action to recover on the bond.
  10.  A motorcycle that has been issued a certificate of title pursuant to this section may be issued a title pursuant to chapter 321 upon proper application and surrender of the existing title. Upon issuance of a title pursuant to chapter 321, the certificate of title previously issued pursuant to this section shall be returned to the issuing county recorder.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §74; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §49, 50; 2012 Acts, ch 1050, §43, 60; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §55; 2013 Acts, ch 132, §55; 2013 Acts, ch 140, §97; 2014 Acts, ch 1141, §67; 2019 Acts, ch 80, §2; 2023 Acts, ch 71, §108
Subsection 3 amended

     
321I.32  Fees — duplicates.
  1.  The county recorder shall charge a ten dollar fee to issue a certificate of title, a transfer of title, a duplicate, or a corrected certificate of title.
  2.  If a certificate of title is lost, stolen, mutilated, destroyed, or becomes illegible, the first lienholder or, if there is none, the owner named in the certificate, as shown by the county recorder’s records, shall within thirty days obtain a duplicate by applying to the county recorder. The applicant shall furnish information the department requires concerning the original certificate and the circumstances of its loss, mutilation, or destruction.
  3.  The duplicate certificate of title shall be marked plainly “duplicate” across its face and mailed or delivered to the applicant.
  4.  If a lost or stolen original certificate of title for which a duplicate has been issued is recovered, the original shall be surrendered promptly to the county recorder for cancellation.
  5.  Five dollars of the certificate of title fees collected under this section shall be remitted by the county recorder to the treasurer of state for deposit in the special all-terrain vehicle fund created under section 321I.8. The remaining five dollars shall be retained by the county and deposited into the general fund of the county.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §75; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §51
Referred to in §321I.31

     
321I.33  Transfer or repossession by operation of law.
  1.  If ownership of an all-terrain vehicle is transferred by operation of law, such as by inheritance, order in bankruptcy, insolvency, replevin, or execution sale, the transferee, within thirty days after acquiring the right to possession of the all-terrain vehicle, shall mail or deliver to the county recorder of the transferee’s county of residence satisfactory proof of ownership as the county recorder requires, together with an application for a new certificate of title, and the required fee, plus the writing fee specified in section 321I.29. However, if the transferee is the surviving spouse of the deceased owner, the county recorder shall waive the required fees.
  2.  If a lienholder repossesses an all-terrain vehicle by operation of law and holds it for resale, the lienholder shall secure a new certificate of title and shall pay the required fee, plus the writing fee specified in section 321I.29.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §76; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §56; 2021 Acts, ch 138, §2; 2023 Acts, ch 71, §109
Section amended

  
     
321I.34  Security interest — perfection and titles — fees.
  1.  A security interest created in this state in an all-terrain vehicle is not perfected until the security interest is noted on the certificate of title.
  a.  To perfect the security interest, an application for security interest must be presented along with the original title. The county recorder shall note the security interest on the face of the title and in the electronic record maintained by the recorder’s office.
  b.  The application fee for a security interest is ten dollars. Five dollars of the fee shall be credited to the special all-terrain vehicle fund created under section 321I.8. The remaining five dollars shall be retained by the county and deposited into the general fund of the county.
  c.  The application shall be accompanied by the writing fee specified in section 321I.29.
  2.  The certificate of title shall be presented to the county recorder when the application for security interest or for assignment of the security interest is presented and a new or endorsed certificate of title shall be issued to the secured party with the name and address of the secured party upon it.
  3.  When a security interest is discharged, the secured party shall note the cancellation of the security interest on the face of the certificate of title and send the title by first class mail to the office of the county recorder where the title was issued. If the title has been lost or destroyed, the secured party may discharge the security interest by sending a signed, notarized statement to the office of the county recorder where the title was issued. The county recorder shall note the release of the security interest in the county records and attach the statement to the certificate of title as evidence of the release of the security interest.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §77; 2007 Acts, ch 141, §52; 2014 Acts, ch 1141, §68; 2023 Acts, ch 71, §110
Subsection 1, NEW paragraph c

     
321I.35  Vehicle identification number.
  1.  The department may assign a distinguishing number to an all-terrain vehicle when the serial number on the all-terrain vehicle is destroyed or obliterated and issue to the owner a special decal bearing the distinguishing number which shall be affixed to the all-terrain vehicle in a position to be determined by the department. The all-terrain vehicle shall be registered and titled under the distinguishing number in lieu of the former serial number. Every all-terrain vehicle shall have a vehicle identification number assigned and affixed as required by the department.
  2.  The commission shall adopt, by rule, the procedures for application and for issuance of a vehicle identification number for homebuilt all-terrain vehicles.
  3.  A person shall not destroy, remove, alter, cover, or deface the manufacturer’s vehicle identification number, the plate or decal bearing it, or any vehicle identification number the department assigns to an all-terrain vehicle without the department’s permission.
  4.  A person other than a manufacturer who constructs or rebuilds an all-terrain vehicle for which there is no legible vehicle identification number shall submit to the department an affidavit which describes the all-terrain vehicle. In cooperation with the county recorder, the department shall assign a vehicle identification number to the all-terrain vehicle. The applicant shall permanently affix the vehicle identification number to the all-terrain vehicle in a manner that such alteration, removal, or replacement of the vehicle identification number would be obvious.
2004 Acts, ch 1132, §78; 2012 Acts, ch 1100, §57

  
     
321I.36  Repeat offender — records, enforcement, and penalties.
  1.  The commission shall establish by rule a recordkeeping system and other administrative procedures necessary to administer this section.
  2.  A person who pleads guilty to or is convicted of a violation of any provision of this chapter while the person’s registration privilege is suspended or revoked under administrative procedures is guilty of a simple misdemeanor if the person had no other violations within the previous three years which occurred while the person’s registration privilege was suspended or revoked.
  3.  A person who pleads guilty to or is convicted of a violation of any provision of this chapter while the person’s registration privilege is suspended or revoked under administrative procedures is guilty of a serious misdemeanor if the person had one other violation within the previous three years which occurred while the person’s registration privilege was suspended or revoked.
  4.  A person who pleads guilty to or is convicted of a violation of any provision of this chapter while the person’s registration privilege is suspended or revoked under administrative procedures is guilty of an aggravated misdemeanor if the person had two or more convictions within the previous three years which occurred while the person’s registration privilege was suspended or revoked.
  5.  a.  Upon the conviction of a person of any violation of this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter, the court, as a part of the judgment, may suspend or revoke one or more all-terrain vehicle registration or user permit privileges of the person for any definite period.
  b.  The court shall revoke all of the person’s all-terrain vehicle registrations or user permits and suspend the privilege of procuring a registration or user permit for a period of one year for any person who has been convicted twice within one year of trespassing while operating an all-terrain vehicle. A person shall not be issued a registration or user permit during the period of suspension or revocation.
2007 Acts, ch 141, §53
Trespass, see §716.7 and 716.8