A bill for an act relating to open season exceptions for taking geese.(Formerly HSB 254.)

House File 866 (HF866) is a bill introduced in the Iowa General Assembly that seeks to allow property owners or tenants outside city limits to take, capture, shoot, or temporarily possess geese without prior permission if they consider the geese to be a nuisance. This provision would apply to agricultural properties or associated residences. The bill amends Section 481A.87, subsection 3, of the Iowa Code to include geese among the animals that can be dealt with in this manner. However, it's important to note that certain species of geese are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and taking these species without proper authorization could result in federal penalties. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/IA/text/HF866/2025?utm_source=openai))

While specific media coverage on HF866 is limited, the bill's intent to provide property owners with more autonomy in managing nuisance geese may be viewed favorably by those experiencing issues with geese populations. Supporters might argue that the bill empowers landowners to protect their property and agricultural interests without bureaucratic delays.

Conversely, environmental and wildlife advocacy groups may express concerns about the bill's potential impact on protected goose species. The inclusion of geese in the list of animals that can be taken without prior permission could lead to unintended consequences, such as the unlawful taking of federally protected species. This could result in legal challenges and penalties under federal law, raising questions about the bill's alignment with conservation efforts and federal regulations.