Aquatic Invasive Species
Utah AIS
Sticker Requirements 2026
Aquatic invasive species sticker and watercraft inspection requirements for Utah boaters. Utah requires mandatory AIS inspection and has a decontamination requirement for all watercraft. Utah has an extensive network of AIS inspection stations at boat launches throughout the state. Quagga mussels have been detected in Lake Powell and other Utah waters. The Utah program requires all boats to be inspected before and after launching.
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 $10,000 criminal fine for transporting invasive mussels; civil penalty up to $5,000
For violating AIS requirements
Step-by-Step
How to Comply with AIS Requirements in Utah
Follow these steps to stay compliant with Utah's aquatic invasive species regulations:
1
Check Sticker & Inspection Requirements
Utah 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 Utah 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
Utah 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 $10,000 criminal fine for transporting invasive mussels; civil penalty up to $5,000.
Requirements
Utah AIS Compliance Requirements
Utah law requires all watercraft to stop at AIS inspection stations and be inspected before launch. Boats with invasive mussels must be decontaminated. Drain plugs must be removed during transport.
Source: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (wildlife.utah.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current AIS requirements directly with the agency before launching.