Invasive Species Permit Required In Idaho

As paddling sports grow in popularity, stay updated on current rules and regulations for safely navigating freshwater lakes and rivers, including invasive species permits.

Idaho Department of Fish & Game requires an invasive species permit for each paddling vessel over 10 feet long, including inflatable ones—this means kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (most are 10+ feet), canoes, and row boats.

An Idaho permit costs $7 per craft; purchase online at idfg.idaho.gov or in-person at state parks or select vendors. Marine law enforcement can issue fines for anyone paddling a non-permitted vessel.

Kayak cockpit view of person sitting in a yellow kayak, with paddle across the legs, on flatwater of Lake Coeur d'Alene.om kayak.
In Idaho, an invasive species permit sticker must be attached to any paddlecraft over 10 feet long: Kayaking on Coeur d’Alene Lake. // Photo: Amy McCaffee

Washington State does not require permits for non-motorized watercraft. Any non-motorized vessels launched in Washington that enter Idaho waters, such as the Spokane River at Stateline, do not need a permit.

To prevent invasive species from being transported between freshwater lakes and rivers, boaters and non-motorized paddle craft are asked to stop at roadside inspection stations off highways, which mainly target out-of-state visitors. Any vessel deemed “high risk” is decontaminated with a hot wash at the station (no fee).            

For complete boating rules and regulations, visit state government websites: Parksandrecreation.idaho.gov and Wdfw.wa.gov.

For more stories about paddling sports, visit the OTO archives.

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