For a Kayak, Do I Need a Launch Permit?

Ready to launch into this new water adventure but want to keep things on the up and up? Then you might be wondering about the rules and regulations surrounding kayaking. As a conscientious citizen and users of waterways, it is important to be aware of the expectations surrounding the use of rivers, lakes, ponds, and coastlines in your area.

State Guidelines for Kayaking

Before you set out on your kayaking adventure make sure to check the local laws in your area.

With that being said, however, here are a few general guidelines to spark the right questions.

License

Let’s start with the good news. There is no state that requires licensing to operate a kayak on any waterway. In other words, you will not need to get a license to take your new kayak out on the lake. (However, this changes the moment you add a trolling motor or modify your craft with any sort of engine.) If your kayak is manually powered (pedal or paddle), you are exempt from licensing. However, a handful of states do require you to register your yak.

Registration

At this writing there are a few states that DO require you to register your kayak in some instances. They are Ohio, Iowa, Minnesota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota. In addition, Pennsylvania also requires registration for certain access points regulated by their Fish and Boat Commission.

This registration process usually comes with some nominal fees that go to maintain launches, docks, etc that you will likely be hoping to access. Having your kayak registered also assists in locating it if it is stolen or aids in rescue efforts if things go awry on your water excursion.

Learn more about the requirements for each state. (If you are just visiting a state temporarily, you will not need to register. But if you are becoming a resident of that state, you will need to follow the registration rules.)

• Ohio
• Iowa (Registration NOT required on non-motorized craft less than 13ft).
• Minnesota (Registration NOT required on non-motorized craft less than 10ft.)
• Oregon (Non-motorized kayaks and canoes under 10 feet in length are exempt from registration. Vessels over 10 feet must have a waterway access permit.
• Pennsylvania (Registration NOT required unless using certain state-run launches.)
• South Dakota (Registration NOT required on non-motorized craft less than 12 ft).

Permits

Now, this is a much more tangled web without an easy answer. Depending on where you are seeking to launch your kayak, there may be fees or permits that are required to access the launch site. These types of permits are common in state/federal parks and government maintained recreational areas. It is important to check the local area to see if they will allow you to launch free of charge or if they require a daily/seasonal/annual pass. You also want to do your research so you aren’t encroaching on private property. 

Additional legal requirements

You may not realize it, but there is a bit more to kayaking than just dropping it in the nearest body of water. There are a few investments you need to make in order to be legal on state waterways. Most states require the following (at minimum):

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD): This safety step is never a bad investment. You should have a PFD for everyone in the kayak (including the dog!)
• Signaling Device: Having both a audible and visual signaling device is prudent for kayak safety. Something as simple as a whistle attached to your PFD is wise. Also, a kayak lamp or headlamp would be a good investment if you are out at dusk or later.
• Bilge Pump and Sponge: Especially if you are using a sit-inside kayak, a bilge pump or sponge will be an important (and required) necessity.

Know before you go! Make sure that you do a bit of research into your local laws and you will continue to have problem free kayaking.