Iowa, like most U.S. states, allows drivers to make a right turn at a red light under certain conditions. However, with road safety concerns rising nationwide and some cities elsewhere banning right turns on red, it’s important for Iowa drivers to stay updated on the current rules and any recent changes for 2025.
Current Law: Right Turn on Red in Iowa
Iowa’s right turn on red rule is governed by Section 321.257 of the Iowa Code. As of 2025, the law remains largely unchanged in its basic provisions:
- Drivers must come to a complete stop at a steady circular red light, either at the marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.
- Right turns on red are permitted unless there is a posted sign prohibiting the maneuver. The turn must be made cautiously from the right lane, or another lane designated for right turns.
- Left turns on red are also allowed, but only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, and only from the left lane or another designated lane.
- Drivers must yield to all pedestrians and other vehicles lawfully using the intersection. The turn must not interfere with their right of way. Any turn that endangers others or causes an accident can be considered unlawful.
“Vehicular traffic shall remain standing until a signal to proceed is shown, or vehicular traffic, unless prohibited by a sign, may cautiously enter the intersection to make a right turn from the right lane of traffic or another lane designated for right turns…” — Iowa Code 321.257
2025 Updates and Enforcement Changes
While the core rule allowing right turns on red remains, there are a few updates and clarifications for 2025 that Iowa drivers should note:
- Municipal Enforcement and Fines: The City of Davenport and other Iowa municipalities have updated their traffic enforcement ordinances to align with new state laws. Red light violations—including improper right turns on red—now carry a $100 fine in cities like Davenport, Des Moines, and Cedar Rapids.
- Automated Traffic Enforcement: Cities using automated cameras for red light enforcement must now post permanent signage at least 500 feet before the enforcement zone. This ensures drivers are aware of monitored intersections and can adjust their behavior accordingly.
- No Statewide Ban: Unlike some U.S. cities responding to pedestrian safety concerns by banning right turns on red, Iowa has not enacted a statewide ban. However, local signage may still prohibit the maneuver at specific intersections, especially in urban areas with higher pedestrian traffic.
Key Points for Drivers in 2025
- Right on Red is Optional, Not Mandatory: Drivers are not required to turn right on red. If you choose to wait for a green light, you are not violating the law, though you may inconvenience drivers behind you.
- Always Check for Signs: Look for “No Turn on Red” signs, which override the general rule and prohibit right turns on red at that intersection.
- Yield to Pedestrians and Traffic: Even when allowed, right turns on red must be made cautiously and only when the way is clear. Failing to yield can result in citations or liability in the event of an accident.
- Automated Enforcement: Be aware of intersections with red light cameras and posted warnings. Fines for violations are enforced automatically, and appeals are possible if you were not the driver at the time.
- Left on Red: Remember, left turns on red are only permitted from a one-way street to another one-way street, following the same rules as right turns on red.
Comparison: Iowa vs. Other States
| Rule/Feature | Iowa (2025) | States/Cities with Bans |
|---|---|---|
| Right Turn on Red | Allowed unless signed | Increasingly banned in cities |
| Left Turn on Red (One-way to One-way) | Allowed unless signed | Often not allowed |
| Automated Red Light Enforcement | Allowed, with signage | Varies by state/city |
| Fine for Violation | $100 (in many cities) | Varies ($100–$250 typical) |
In 2025, Iowa continues to allow right turns on red after a complete stop, unless specifically prohibited by signage. The most notable updates involve increased enforcement and standardized fines in line with state law.
Drivers should remain vigilant for local restrictions, yield to pedestrians and other vehicles, and be aware of automated enforcement zones. While national trends show some cities banning right turns on red for safety, Iowa’s statewide rule remains permissive, prioritizing both driver convenience and intersection safety.
Sources:
- https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/321.257.pdf
- https://jsberrylaw.com/faqs/iowa-road-laws-liability-in-right-turn-auto-accidents/
- https://davenportiowa.com/news/what_s_new/new_automated_traffic_enforcement_regulations
- https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/2024-06-10/more-cities-are-banning-right-turns-on-red-in-response-to-rising-pedestrian-deaths
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Iowa/comments/12e7t9y/are_rights_on_red_required_questions_about/
