Iowa Admin. Code r. 701-285.15
Student fraternities and sororities are not considered to be engaged in the business of selling tangible personal property at retail within the meaning of the sales tax law when they provide their members with meals and lodging for which a flat rate or lump sum is charged. A person engaged in the selling of foods and beverages to such organizations for use in the preparation of meals is making exempt sales at retail and shall not be liable for tax if the food purchases would be exempt under rule 701-20.1 (422,423).
Student fraternities or sororities engaged in the business of serving meals to persons other than members for which separate charges are made, or owning and operating canteens through which tangible personal property is sold are deemed to be making taxable sales.
When student fraternities or sororities do not provide their own meals but are provided by caterers, concessionaires or other persons, such caterers, concessionaires or other persons shall be liable for the collection and remittance of tax with respect to their receipts from meals furnished. A similar liability is attached to persons engaged in the business of operating boarding houses, whether for students or other persons.
This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 422.42(3), 422.43, 423.1 and 423.2.
Iowa Admin. Code r. 701-285.15