Aquatic Invasive Species
North Dakota AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for North Dakota boaters. North Dakota has a mandatory AIS inspection program for all watercraft being launched at or removed from any North Dakota water body. Inspections are conducted at staffed inspection stations at boat ramps across the state. Boats that fail inspection must be decontaminated before launching. There is no paid sticker but the inspection program is mandatory.
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 B misdemeanor for failing to comply with AIS inspection
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in North Dakota
Follow these steps to stay compliant with North Dakota's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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
North Dakota 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 B misdemeanor for failing to comply with AIS inspection.
Requirements
North Dakota AIS Compliance Requirements
North Dakota law requires all boaters to stop at AIS inspection stations when present, submit to inspection, drain all water from boats and equipment, and have boats decontaminated if AIS is found.
Source: North Dakota Game and Fish Department (gf.nd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.