Aquatic Invasive Species
Arizona AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for Arizona boaters. Arizona has a mandatory AIS inspection program. All watercraft must stop at AIS inspection stations before launching at Arizona waters. Arizona requires mandatory decontamination for boats found with invasive mussels. Quagga mussels are present in Lake Mead, Lake Havasu, and other Colorado River reservoirs. Arizona's inspection program is designed to prevent spread into clean inland waters.
Inspection Required
Inspection Stations Available
2026 AIS Requirements Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Sticker
N/A
No sticker required
Nonresident Sticker
N/A
Check agency for current fees
Inspection?
Required
Stations available at ramps
Noncompliance Fine
Class 2 misdemeanor for transporting prohibited species; fines up to $750
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in Arizona
Follow these steps to stay compliant with Arizona's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
Arizona requires a mandatory watercraft inspection before launching on certain waters. No paid sticker is required, but you must stop at inspection stations when present.
2
Purchase Your AIS Sticker (If Required)
No paid AIS sticker purchase is required in Arizona at this time. Check back annually as state requirements can change.
3
Practice Clean, Drain, Dry
Before leaving any boat launch - and before launching on a new water body - clean all visible aquatic plants and debris from your boat, trailer, and equipment. Drain all water from bilges, livewells, bait buckets, motor, and other water-holding compartments. Allow the boat to dry for at least 5 days before launching on a different water body, or use a high-pressure, hot-water wash.
4
Cooperate with Inspection Stations
Arizona operates watercraft inspection stations at launch sites and on roadways. When you encounter an inspection station, stop and allow the inspector to check your boat. Inspections are typically free and quick - usually under 10 minutes. Refusing an inspection can result in a fine.
Noncompliance fine: Class 2 misdemeanor for transporting prohibited species; fines up to $750.
Requirements
Arizona AIS Compliance Requirements
Arizona law requires all watercraft to submit to AIS inspection before launching. Boats found with AIS must be decontaminated. Drain plugs must be removed during transport on public roads.
Source: Arizona Game and Fish Department (www.azgfd.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.