Iowa Code § 207.26: Mining operations not subject to this chapter.

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to any of the following activities:

1. The extraction of coal by a landowner for the landowner’s own noncommercial use from land owned or leased by the landowner.

2. The extraction of coal as an incidental part of federal, state or local government-financed highway or other construction under rules promulgated by the division.