Iowa’s knife laws are relatively permissive compared to some states, but they contain important restrictions and nuances that every resident or visitor should understand. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what knives are legal, how they may be carried, where restrictions apply, and the penalties for violations.
Types of Knives You Can Own and Carry
- Legal Knives:
Iowa law generally allows the ownership of most types of knives, including folding knives, fixed-blade knives, automatic (switchblade) knives, butterfly (balisong) knives, daggers, stilettos, and disguised knives like belt or lipstick knives. - Prohibited Knives:
Ballistic knives—those with a detachable, spring-propelled blade—are strictly forbidden. Possession of a ballistic knife is a felony offense.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
- Open Carry:
You may openly carry most knives in Iowa, regardless of blade length or type, so long as you do not intend to use the knife unlawfully. This includes carrying knives on your belt or clipped to a pocket. - Concealed Carry:
Concealed carry is more restricted. Any knife classified as a “dangerous weapon”—including daggers, razors, stilettos, switchblades, and any knife with a blade exceeding five inches—may not be carried concealed without a valid permit. Carrying such a weapon concealed without a permit is a serious misdemeanor.
Definition of Dangerous and Offensive Weapons
- Dangerous Weapons:
Iowa law defines certain knives as “dangerous weapons,” including any dagger, razor, stiletto, switchblade, or any knife with a blade longer than five inches, regardless of type. These knives face stricter carry regulations. - Offensive Weapons:
Ballistic knives are classified as “offensive weapons” and are illegal to possess or own under any circumstances.
Age Restrictions and Permits
- Age Limit:
You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a permit for carrying dangerous weapons, including concealed knives. - Permits:
A permit is not required to openly carry most knives, but is necessary for concealed carry of dangerous weapons. There are exceptions for certain professions (e.g., hunting or fishing with a valid license).
Restricted Locations
- Schools:
All knives are prohibited in schools and within 1,000 feet of school grounds, which are designated as “weapons-free zones.” Violations carry enhanced penalties. - Other Restricted Areas:
Knives are also banned in courthouses, government buildings, airports, and on certain private property. Local governments may regulate knife possession on their property, but statewide preemption limits their authority.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniformity of Law:
Iowa has a statewide preemption law, meaning local governments cannot enact knife regulations that are more restrictive than state law. This ensures consistency throughout the state Recent legislation has strengthened enforcement of preemption, effective January 1, 20257.
Penalties for Violations
- Concealed Carry Without Permit:
Carrying a dangerous weapon concealed without a permit is a serious misdemeanor, punishable by fines and possible jail time. - Possession of Offensive Weapons:
Possessing a ballistic knife is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and substantial fines. - Weapons-Free Zones:
Penalties for violations in weapons-free zones (such as schools) are doubled.
Defenses and Exceptions
- Law Enforcement, Military, and Certain Professions:
Police, corrections officers, and military members are generally exempt when acting within the scope of their duties. Hunters and fishers may carry certain knives if required for their activities and properly licensed.
Iowa Knife Law Key Points
| Topic | Legal Status / Rule |
|---|---|
| Open Carry | Legal for most knives, unless criminal intent is shown |
| Concealed Carry | Dangerous weapons (blade >5″) require a permit |
| Ballistic Knives | Completely illegal to own or carry |
| Schools/Weapons-Free Zones | All knives prohibited; double penalties for violations |
| Statewide Preemption | Yes; local laws cannot be stricter than state law (enforced from Jan 1, 2025) |
| Age for Permit | 21+ |
| Exceptions | Law enforcement, military, licensed hunting/fishing |
Iowa allows broad ownership and open carry of knives, but imposes significant restrictions on concealed carry of certain types and blade lengths, as well as on possession in sensitive locations. Ballistic knives are entirely banned. Always check for the most current laws and consult legal counsel if in doubt, especially when traveling or carrying knives for work or recreation.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://ravencresttactical.com/iowa-knife-laws/
[2] https://knifeade.com/iowa-knife-law/
[3] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/iowa/
[4] https://edc.ninja/iowa-knife-laws/
[5] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/iowa-knife-laws/
