Aquatic Invasive Species
Florida AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for Florida boaters. Florida does not require a paid AIS sticker. Florida has some of the most severe AIS problems in the nation, including numerous invasive fish (lionfish, peacock bass, Burmese pythons), plants (hydrilla, water hyacinth), and animals. FWC runs an active AIS management program and encourages boaters to clean equipment thoroughly before moving between water bodies.
2026 AIS Requirements Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Resident Sticker
N/A
No sticker required
Nonresident Sticker
N/A
Check agency for current fees
Inspection?
Not Required
No mandatory inspection
Noncompliance Fine
Fines under Florida Statute for transporting invasive species
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in Florida
Follow these steps to stay compliant with Florida's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
Florida does not currently require a mandatory AIS sticker or inspection program. However, all boaters are strongly encouraged to follow Clean, Drain, Dry practices.
2
Purchase Your AIS Sticker (If Required)
No paid AIS sticker purchase is required in Florida 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
If you encounter a voluntary inspection station in Florida, stopping is strongly encouraged even if not required. Inspectors can identify and remove invasive species from your equipment that you may have missed.
Noncompliance fine: Fines under Florida Statute for transporting invasive species.
Requirements
Florida AIS Compliance Requirements
Florida law prohibits transport and introduction of invasive species. Clean, Drain, Dry protocol encouraged at all launches.
Important Notes
Florida-Specific AIS Rules
Florida has aggressive AIS management programs but no sticker requirement.
Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (myfwc.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.