Moving firewood is a common pathway for non-native, tree-damaging pests to reach new areas. Destructive pests can hitch a ride on or within firewood into Iowa. The introduction of invasive pests can not only be detrimental to the landscape and a nuisance, but costly to manage. Tree-damaging pests from other states threaten Iowa, such as Asian longhorned beetle, spongy moth, and spotted lanternfly. Use locally sourced firewood in Iowa or certified heat-treated firewood to help prevent the accidental introduction of unwanted pests.

Individuals or anyone conducting business need to be aware and abide to any regulations and requirements before transporting firewood into Iowa. For regulated pests such as Asian longhorned beetle and spongy moth, the movement of uncertified firewood out of a quarantined area in another state into Iowa is prohibited. Labeled, certified heat-treated firewood accompanied by a USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) or state-based (e.g., State Department of Agriculture) heat treatment logo is considered safe to transfer. Anyone who moved firewood into the state from a regulated area is urged to burn it immediately.

Due to the infestation status of emerald ash borer (EAB) in Iowa, the movement of Iowa-origin firewood within the state is no longer regulated. While county-to-county movement is permitted, it is strongly advised to use locally-sourced firewood. Buy it Where You Burn it or use firewood that is certified heat-treated.

Many states have restrictions on the movement of out-of-state firewood. Consult with plant health authorities in the destination and transiting states if unsure or contact the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship (IDALS) at the contact information below for assistance.

Certified heat-treated firewood is heated in a certified kiln to a minimum core temperature of 140 degrees F for 60 minutes. Heat-treated firewood mitigates the risk of insects and pathogens associated with the transportation of firewood. This certification is voluntary and not a requirement to sell firewood originating in Iowa, but may be required to comply with regulations in other states. Contact IDALS if your firewood operation would like more information on attaining heat-treatment kiln certification.

In Iowa, firewood must meet minimum label requirements. This applies to all packaged and bulk firewood offered, exposed, advertised or held for sale. For bulk firewood, the required information must be provided on the delivery ticket. IDALS Administrative Rules also requires firewood labeling to include the harvest location of the wood by county and state. Iowans who see unlabeled or improperly labeled firewood advertised for sale are encouraged to contact IDALS by using the contact information below. Click on the following link for more details on firewood labeling.

Iowa Firewood Labeling Requirements (.pdf)

For regulatory questions (entering or exiting Iowa), heat-treatment certification, labeling or compliance agreements related to firewood, contact:

Mike Kintner - Mike.Kintner@Iowaagriculture.gov, 515-745-2877