Precursor Substances Permit

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Precursor substances are chemicals that can be used to make illegal drugs. In Iowa, anyone who handles these substances must follow certain rules. This includes getting a permit, renewing it on time, and reporting sales or transfers. Some people or businesses may not need a permit or may be excused from reporting. These rules help keep these substances safe and used only for legal purposes.

Summary

  • Code citations
  • Nonrefundable Fees
    • $180 Precursor Substance Permit (initial and annual renewal)
  • Additional information
    • All permits expire on Dec. 31 each year
    • Monthly reporting may be requested with Board approval
    • Reports are required for transactions, losses, and thefts
    • Some groups are exempt from fees or reporting, but most still need a permit

Examples of exempt groups include law enforcement agencies, analytical labs, and licensed health professionals under certain conditions

Reports to the Board

Precursor Substance Transactions

  • Deliveries in Iowa: If you sell, transfer, or give a precursor substance to someone in Iowa, you must report it at least 21 days before delivery.
  • Receipts from out of state: If you receive a precursor substance from outside Iowa, you must report it within 14 days after receiving it.

Precursor Substances Transaction Report

Reporting Loss or Theft

You must report to the Board within seven days if you notice:

  • A loss or theft of a precursor substance, or
  • A difference between the amount shipped and the amount received

Report of Theft or Loss of Precursor Substances

Monthly Reporting Options

If you often send the same precursor substance to the same recipient, you may ask the Board for monthly reporting approval.

  • Requests must be submitted at least 21 days before the Board meeting where they’ll be reviewed.
  • You may also ask to submit computer-generated reports. These can be in paper or other Board-approved formats.
  • You are responsible for making sure your reports are accurate and fixing any errors quickly.

Reporting Exemptions

You do not need to report transactions if:

  • You are a pharmacist or authorized seller providing the substance based on a prescription (Iowa Code Chapter 155A).
  • You are a practitioner who gives the substance to a patient.
  • You are a permit holder who sells, transfers, or gives the substance to a pharmacy or practitioner as defined in Iowa Code section 155A.3.
  • You sell or give a lawfully sold over-the-counter drug or cosmetic with ephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, or pseudoephedrine, following Iowa Code Chapter 126.

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