Iowa Code § 477.1: Right-of-way.

Any person, firm, and corporation, within or without the state, may construct a telegraph or telephone line or cable system along the public roads of the state, or across or under the rivers or over, under, or through any lands belonging to the state or any private individual, and may erect or install necessary fixtures. However, construction of a telegraph or telephone line or cable system along a primary road is subject to rules adopted by the state department of transportation.