Unpowered boats like kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), as well as rowboats and sailboats (without motors) must have a boat registration, PFBC launch permit, or a DCNR State Parks launch permit to use PFBC lakes and access areas or Pennsylvania State Parks and Forests access areas. An unpowered boat may have either a registration or a launch permit but is not required to have both.
Use the chart below to consider whether a registration or a launch permit is right for you.
Register Your Unpowered Boat Next Year For These Benefits:
Unpowered Boat Registration (2 Years) | |
|---|---|
| Cost | $22.00 |
| Renewal Reminders Sent | YES |
| Recognized by Other States | YES |
| Increases Federal Funding for Pennyslvania Boating Programs* | YES |
| Contact Information for Boat Stored in the Commission's Database | YES |
Launch "Use" Permit (1-Year or 2-Year Options) | |
|---|---|
| Cost (2 years)* | $22.00 |
| Renewal Reminders Sent | NO |
| Recognized by Other States | NO |
| Increases Federal Funding for Pennyslvania Boating Programs* | NO |
| Contact Information for Boat Stored in the Commission's Database | NO |
*Cost does not include any applicable agent/transaction fees.
**Federal Funds allocated to Pennsylvania for boating programs are calculated with number of registered boaters.