Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp

The Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp funds programs aimed at combating aquatic invasive species.

Who needs an AIS Stamp?

Boaters who register their motorized watercraft in Nebraska will notice a $5 fee added to their 3-year boater registration fee. Boaters who register their motorized watercraft in any other state will be required to obtain an $18 Aquatic Invasive Species Stamp each year that they boat in Nebraska. This stamp is available for purchase online. A temporary stamp may be purchased at some state parks and recreation areas.

How to purchase

Residents

Residents do not need to purchase a separate AIS Stamp. They will pay the AIS fee when they register their boat and provide that proof when affixing the boat registration number on the boat.

Nonresidents

The AIS Stamp can be purchased online through our permit system. Select “Non-Resident BOAT AIS Stamp” under “Stamps, Apprentice Certifications, etc.” under the non-resident permit system page. A temporary stamp may be purchased at some state parks and recreation areas.

Invasive zebra mussels encrust a dock line rope.

Aquatic invasive species in Nebraska

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are exotic or non-native aquatic organisms that pose a significant threat to our aquatic resources, water supplies or water infrastructure. These organisms can be plants, fish, mussels, crayfish, invertebrates or pathogens.

Learn more

Frequently asked questions

Motorized watercraft registered in Nebraska will be required to pay a $5 fee in addition to the 3-year registration fee.
Motorized watercraft registered in any other state will be required to obtain a $18 AIS stamp annually.

Fees collected, as authorized with the passage of LB 142 by the 2015 Legislature, will fund the newly created Aquatic Invasive Species Program in Nebraska. These fees will pay for programs to educate the public about AIS, prevention efforts to keep AIS from being introduced into Nebraska such as monitoring waters across the state, inspection and decontamination of conveyances, treatment for AIS populations, and other AIS projects as needed.

Watercraft are the primary means that AIS, especially zebra and quagga mussels, are transported and therefore are the greatest risk for spreading AIS to and within Nebraska. There are confirmed waters in Nebraska that have invasive mussel populations and other AIS. All watercraft present a risk for transporting AIS. It is important for all boaters and water-based recreationalist to follow the Clean, Drain, Dry protocol.

On or before Jan. 1, 2016, non-resident boat owners will be able to purchase this annual $18 stamp ($15 plus a $3 issuing fee) at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission permitting offices, over the web or through permit agents like Walmart.

If you lose a stamp, you will be required to purchase a new one. Duplicate stamps will not be available.

Non-resident AIS boat stamps are valid for one calendar year; they will expire on Dec. 31 for each year purchased. Resident boat registrations, which will include the AIS fee, are good for three years.

Starting Jan. 1, 2016, residents renewing or registering their boats will pay the new AIS fee; non-residents will be required to have the new AIS stamp affixed to the boat prior to launching in Nebraska waters.

For all non-resident watercraft launching into Nebraska waters, an AIS stamp must be displayed on the starboard (right) and rearward side of the boat and above the water line so it can be observed while in the water.

Residents pay the AIS fee when they register their boat and provide that proof when affixing the boat registration number on the boat.

No, an AIS decal is not proof a watercraft has been inspected. The stamp is a funding mechanism for the AIS program.

Yes, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regulations require that all non-resident motorized watercraft have an AIS stamp prior to launching on or entering into the waters of the state.

No, the AIS stamp remains attached to the watercraft and is valid for the remainder of the calendar year.

If the boat is launched from a Nebraska boat ramp facility, an AIS stamp will be required.