House File 710 introduces a new section to Iowa law regarding the construction of roofs on private docks. It allows individuals with a valid class I or class III dock permit to build a roof over their dock, provided that the roof meets specific criteria, including being made of rust-resistant materials, not exceeding thirty feet in width or twenty feet in height above the normal water elevation, and not being used for sleeping or habitation. Additionally, to install such a roof, dock owners must maintain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of one million dollars, and they will be held liable for any damages caused by the roof.

The bill also permits associations, defined as nonprofit corporations managing communities adjacent to public lakes, to impose additional restrictions and requirements regarding roof construction on private docks. These rules would apply only to the members of the association and their guests. This legislation aims to ensure safety and liability management for dock structures while allowing for some local governance through associations.