Aquatic Invasive Species
Colorado AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for Colorado boaters. Colorado requires mandatory AIS inspection and has a Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination (WID) program. Colorado requires all watercraft to submit to inspection before launching and after haul-out. Colorado also has a mandatory AIS sticker program for motorized watercraft — the annual Aquatic Nuisance Species Stamp (included in state parks pass for many boaters). Zebra mussels have been detected in Pueblo Reservoir.
AIS Sticker Required
Inspection Required
Inspection Stations Available
2026 AIS Requirements Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Sticker
$25.00
Annual resident AIS sticker fee
Nonresident Sticker
$25.00
Annual nonresident AIS sticker fee
Inspection?
Required
Stations available at ramps
Noncompliance Fine
Class 2 misdemeanor for launching without inspection; up to $500 and/or 90 days imprisonment; $5,000 civil penalty for transporting AIS
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in Colorado
Follow these steps to stay compliant with Colorado's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
Colorado requires an annual AIS sticker to launch on public waters. Resident fee: $25.00. Nonresident fee: $25.00. Purchase the sticker before launching.
2
Purchase Your AIS Sticker (If Required)
Purchase your AIS sticker online through Colorado Parks and Wildlife's website (purchase here), at a licensed sporting goods retailer, or at a regional agency office. The sticker must be affixed to your watercraft in the location specified by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
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
Colorado 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 launching without inspection; up to $500 and/or 90 days imprisonment; $5,000 civil penalty for transporting AIS.
Requirements
Colorado AIS Compliance Requirements
Colorado law requires: (1) Annual ANS stamp for all motorized watercraft, (2) Mandatory inspection before launch and after haul-out at staffed WID stations, (3) Decontamination if AIS found, (4) Drain plugs removed during transport.
Important Notes
Colorado-Specific AIS Rules
Colorado's ANS stamp program is one of few states requiring a paid sticker.
Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (cpw.state.co.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.