The Iowa Surface Owners Protection Act establishes regulations for oil and gas operations, including the responsibilities of operators and the rights of surface owners. The Act applies to real property where such operations are conducted and specifically to those commenced on or after July 1, 2026, with certain exceptions for ongoing activities at existing wells and operations under pre-existing agreements. Key definitions are provided, including terms like "operator," "surface owner," and "reclaim," which outline the scope of oil and gas operations from exploration to reclamation.

Under the Act, operators are required to compensate surface owners for damages related to crops, land improvements, and loss of access, among other impacts. Operators must also provide advance notice to surface owners before commencing operations, including a proposed surface use and compensation agreement. If no agreement is reached within 90 days of notice, operators may enter the property but must pay for any damages incurred. The Act also outlines legal remedies for surface owners, including the potential for attorney fees and treble damages in cases of operator violations.