Do You Need a Permit for a Kayak in Oregon?

Kayaking is a popular activity in Oregon, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas providing ample opportunities for enthusiasts to enjoy. However, before you set out on your kayak adventure, it’s important to know whether you need a permit. In this article, we’ll explore the rules and regulations surrounding kayaking permits in Oregon.

Do You Need a Permit?

The short answer is yes, you do need a permit to kayak in Oregon. However, the type of permit required will depend on where you plan to kayak.

Rivers and Lakes

If you’re planning to kayak on a river or lake in Oregon, you’ll need to obtain a Waterway Access Permit. This permit is required for all watercraft 10 feet or longer that are powered by anything other than muscle power (e.g., sailboats or motorboats).

To obtain a Waterway Access Permit, you can visit the Oregon State Marine Board website and purchase one online. The cost of the permit varies depending on the length of your watercraft and the duration of the permit (1-year or 2-year). As of 2021, the cost ranges from $20-$30 for a 1-year permit and $32-$48 for a 2-year permit.

Coastal Areas

If you plan to kayak along the coast of Oregon, you’ll need to obtain an Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit in addition to the Waterway Access Permit. This permit is required for all watercraft that are launched or operated in coastal waters within Oregon’s Territorial Sea (which extends three nautical miles from shore).

To obtain an Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit, visit any of the many ODFW license vendors throughout Oregon or purchase one online from the ODFW website. As of 2021, the cost of this permit is $7.

Consequences of Failing to Obtain a Permit

If you’re caught kayaking without the necessary permits in Oregon, you may face fines and penalties. The exact consequences will depend on the specific circumstances of your violation, but may include fines of up to $250 or even criminal charges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you plan to kayak in Oregon, it’s important to obtain the necessary permits before setting out on your adventure. Be sure to obtain both the Waterway Access Permit and the Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permit (if kayaking along the coast). Not only will obtaining these permits keep you in compliance with state regulations, but it will also help preserve Oregon’s natural resources for future generations to enjoy.

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Daniel Bennet