HSB 715: Relating to camping, including camper and cabin limits at youth camps and emergency safety requirements at campgrounds

What it does

This bill relates to campgrounds, including camper and cabin limits at youth camps and emergency safety requirements at campgrounds. The bill creates definitions for terms used in the bill. The bill requires the department of natural resources (department) to adopt rules establishing limits, based on flood risk, on the number of campers allowed at a youth camp located in a floodplain at any one time and the number of cabins permitted on the premises of a youth camp. The bill requires all campgrounds to have an emergency alarm system installed and operating that can function without an internet connection and to post emergency evacuation directions in all structures within the campground. The bill grants the department the power and authority reasonably necessary to effectuate the bill.

House subcommittee · named February 10, 2026

• Rep. Jason Gearhart (R) · jason.gearhart@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Timi M. Brown-Powers (D) · timi.brown-powers@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Christian A. Hermanson (R) · christian.hermanson@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 1 for, 0 against

For: Iowa Emergency Management Association

In plain words

1. February 10, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Public Safety committee
2. February 10, 2026House subcommittee named: Gearhart, Brown-Powers and Hermanson
3. February 12, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. February 17, 2026Approved by the House committee
5. February 17, 2026Committee vote: 21–0
6. February 19, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2626