Iowa Rules for Agricultural Worker Housing and Tenant Rights

Special Housing Types & Situations Iowa published June 21, 2025 Flag of Iowa

Agricultural workers in Iowa often live in employer-provided or farm-located group housing. Understanding your rights is crucial in these environments, where standards for housing safety, sanitation, and security are governed by unique state and federal rules. This guide breaks down Iowa agricultural worker housing regulations, relevant tenant protections, and key steps for renters to safeguard their homes and health.

The Basics: What Is Agricultural Worker Housing in Iowa?

Agricultural worker housing, sometimes called migrant labor camps or farmworker housing, refers to accommodations provided specifically for people working seasonally or temporarily on Iowa farms. Such housing is subject to special rules under both the Iowa Code Chapter 135G - Migrant Labor Camps, as well as certain federal guidelines.

Who Regulates Agricultural Worker Housing in Iowa?

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (IHHS) - Environmental Health Services oversees the licensing and inspection of agricultural worker housing, known formally as "migrant labor camps". Inspections ensure that housing meets safety, sanitation, and facilities standards.

  • Iowa Department of Health & Human Services inspects and licenses camps
  • Federal Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards may also apply
  • Iowa's main law is Iowa Code Chapter 135G

Key Housing Standards and Tenant Rights

Agricultural worker housing must meet clear minimum requirements. These include:

  • Safe and sanitary buildings (proper roofs, heating, ventilation)
  • Functioning plumbing and clean drinking water
  • Adequate garbage disposal and pest control
  • Sufficient beds and storage
  • Secure, private toilet and bathing facilities

If you believe your housing does not meet these requirements, you have the right to report unsafe or unsanitary conditions without employer retaliation.

How to File a Housing Complaint

Tenants can file complaints about poor conditions directly with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. This starts an official inspection process.

  • Official Form: Migrant Labor Camp Complaint Form (No designated number)
  • When to Use: If you face unsafe, unhealthy, or overcrowded living conditions in your agricultural camp
  • How to Use: Complete the form describing your concern, then submit it to your local county health agency or directly to IHHS Migrant Labor Camps Program

Example: If your camp is overcrowded, with broken plumbing and no access to clean water, you (or a trusted advocate) can fill out the complaint form and request an official investigation.

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Eviction and Rent Issues: Where Do You Stand?

The Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code Chapter 562A) applies to most rented housing in Iowa. However, employer-provided agricultural worker housing is often exempt from certain sections; it's crucial to check if your camp is covered by this law or only by health/safety rules.

  • If a written lease exists, the basic rights and notice periods usually apply
  • If no lease: the camp rules and state health/safety codes determine your protections
  • Your right to a safe and habitable home is always protected under the Iowa Code Chapter 135G and public health regulations
If you are unsure if your agricultural housing is covered by the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, request clarification from both your landlord and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.

Which Tribunal Handles Disputes?

In Iowa, rental disputes (including some issues involving farmworker housing) may be addressed in your local Iowa Small Claims Court (part of the Iowa Judicial Branch), or—when it involves health/safety standards—by the IHHS Environmental Health Services.

Relevant Iowa Legislation

Always review the latest version of state statutes for the most accurate protections.

FAQ: Iowa Agricultural Worker Housing

  1. What are my rights if my farmworker housing is unsafe?
    You can file a complaint with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. State law protects your right to safe, sanitary, and uncrowded accommodation.
  2. Can my employer evict me from agricultural housing without notice?
    If you do not have a written lease, agricultural worker housing may not have standard notice requirements; however, safety, sanitation, and due process must be followed as required by law.
  3. How do I report overcrowding or poor living conditions?
    Complete the Migrant Labor Camp Complaint Form and send it to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. They will review your case and may conduct an inspection.
  4. Do general Iowa tenant laws apply to agricultural worker housing?
    Some housing protections apply, but agricultural worker housing rules are primarily set by Iowa Code Chapter 135G. Always check the specific type of housing and lease agreement.
  5. Who can I talk to for tenant support or legal advice?
    Reach out to Iowa Legal Aid or your local health department for free, confidential advice on farmworker housing rights.

Key Takeaways for Iowa Agricultural Worker Renters

  • Your right to safe and sanitary housing is protected under Iowa law, even in employer-provided camps.
  • Complaints about dangerous or unhealthy conditions should be filed with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
  • If unclear about your rights, always request guidance from state or legal resources.

Maintaining health and habitability in agricultural settings is a priority under Iowa law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Iowa Code Chapter 135G – Migrant Labor Camps
  2. Iowa Department of Health and Human Services – Environmental Health Services
  3. Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Chapter 562A)
  4. Iowa Small Claims Court – official rental dispute info
  5. Iowa Legal Aid

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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