Boat Registration Information
Any boat with a motor or sail operated in Colorado on any public waters must be registered with Colorado State Parks.
To register your boat, complete the Boat Registration and return it to:
Colorado State Parks-Registration Unit
13787 S Highway 85
Littleton, CO 80125
If paying by credit card you may also fax the application to (303)470-0782.
You may also register your boat at many State Parks and offices; for a list of the nearest registration location, click here. Always call ahead to ensure services are available.
Registration Fees
The annual registration fees are determined by the length of the boat.
- Less than 20 feet in length - $25.25
- 20 fee to less than 30 feet - $30.25
- 30 feet or greater - $50.25
Registrations are valid from January 1 to December 31 each year. This is a flat administrative transaction fee - it cannot be prorated for a partial year’s registration and will not be subject to refund if the boat is sold or stolen.
Boat Registration Renewals
Registration renewal cards are mailed to currently registered owners each November. You may also renew your registration online by going to the web address on the back of the renewal card.
Purchasing a new boat
When you purchase a boat, you may operate the boat up to 30 days from the date of sale. You must carry your dated bill of sale on board with you. Since the registration process may take up to six weeks, you will want to complete and submit your boat registration application right away.
Sorry, at this time on-line registrations for a new boat is not available.
Out-of-state boats
Vessels from other states may be operated in Colorado for up to 60 days with a current registration from the owner’s state.
Canoes and kayaks, and other craft that do not require registration must be legibly marked with the name and address of the owner.
Decal Placement
The Colorado Registration Number assigned to your boat must be painted or attached to each side of the bow on the forward half of the vessel. For general decal placement instructions, see the Registration Decal Placement Brochure.
For boat decal placement, see:
These numbers must be a minimum of 3 inches in height and be of contrasting color to the boat. The yearly decals need to be placed to the left of the Registration number on both sides of the boat.