Aquatic Invasive Species
Montana AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for Montana boaters. Montana has a mandatory AIS inspection and decontamination program for all motorized watercraft and certain non-motorized craft. Montana requires that all watercraft be inspected before launching in high-risk waters, and watercraft found with AIS must be decontaminated. Zebra and quagga mussels have not yet been detected in Montana waters but pose a severe threat, and Montana's program is designed to keep them out.
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 $1,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment for transporting AIS; civil penalties up to $10,000
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in Montana
Follow these steps to stay compliant with Montana's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
Montana 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 Montana 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
Montana 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 $1,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment for transporting AIS; civil penalties up to $10,000.
Requirements
Montana AIS Compliance Requirements
Montana law requires all motorized watercraft (and kayaks/canoes entering certain water bodies) to stop at AIS inspection stations, have boats inspected, drain all water, and be decontaminated if AIS is present. Watercraft must be dry for a specified period before launching into AIS-free waters.
Important Notes
Montana-Specific AIS Rules
Montana operates year-round inspection stations on major access corridors.
Source: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (fwp.mt.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.