Aquatic Invasive Species
Minnesota AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for Minnesota boaters. Minnesota has one of the strongest AIS programs in the country. Minnesota requires all boaters to drain boats, live wells, bilges, and portable bait containers before leaving any water access. MN law also requires anglers to dispose of leftover bait on land and not to transport water from any water body. Watercraft inspection is mandatory at staffed inspection stations. Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, and spiny water flea are well-established threats.
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
Up to $5,000 gross misdemeanor for transporting AIS
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in Minnesota
Follow these steps to stay compliant with Minnesota's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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
Minnesota 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: Up to $5,000 gross misdemeanor for transporting AIS.
Requirements
Minnesota AIS Compliance Requirements
Minnesota law requires: (1) drain boats and bilges before leaving access, (2) remove aquatic plants and animals from boats and equipment, (3) dispose of live bait on land. Mandatory inspection at staffed stations; boats with AIS must be decontaminated.
Important Notes
Minnesota-Specific AIS Rules
MN law also requires drain plugs be removed when transporting boats on public roads.
Source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (www.dnr.state.mn.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.