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Watercraft are the largest source for spreading aquatic invasive species (AIS) into new waterways. Inspections are an essential part of preventing this inadvertent transport of alien species into the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe.

 Invasive species have devastating environmental and economic impacts on industries, communities, and native species populations. Most invasive species do not have predators to keep their populations in balance and, once introduced, are difficult if not impossible to eradicate. Mandatory inspections will stop aquatic invasive species, such as Quagga mussels, BEFORE they enter the water. Please do your part to protect Lake Tahoe and plan ahead for mandatory boat inspections.

Clean, Drain, and Dry your watercraft. Drain your bilge, ballast tanks, live wells, and any storage compartments. Dispose of any plants or critters away from lakes or rivers – and above the high water line. If you have an outdrive, lower the outdrive on the engine to release any residual water. Inspections take place only during daylight hours and take only a few minutes if you arrive prepared!

Click here for inspection station locations.

Transport companies with large or oversized boats please call 888-824-6267, 72 hours in advance, to schedule an appointment.

If you have special flushing adapters please bring those with you.

There is a fee for Tahoe boat inspections according to boat size and is payable with visa & mastercard only.  An additional fee for decontamination may apply for boats that are not Clean, Drained & Dry. After passing inspection, you will receive a 2012 Tahoe inspection sticker and a Tahoe wire seal which attaches your boat to your trailer. Stickered and sealed boats are ready to launch!

Watercrafts are the largest vectors for spreading aquatic invasive species (AIS), such as Quagga and zebra mussels into new waterways, making boat inspections a vital aspect of protecting Lake Tahoe and other nearby water bodies. Click here for more info on boat inspections and AIS.