LAUNCH PERMITS

Owners of unpowered boats (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, etc.) can launch their boats at Commission lakes and access areas or Pennsylvania state parks if their boats display a Commission launch use permit, boat registration, or PA State Parks launch permit or mooring permit. Pennsylvania State Parks recognizes Commission boat registrations and launch permits. The Commission does NOT recognize launch permits from other states. A Commission launch permit application is located on the inside page of the Boating Handbook wrapper or can be purchased online at the Commission's web site.

A Renewal of Registration form is mailed to boat owners prior to the expiration date. If one is not received, boat owners should write to the Licensing and Registration Section.

A Duplicate/Replacement Certificate of Registration can be obtained for $3 through the Licensing and Registration Section.

A Change of Address form (PFBC-732) must be filed within 15 days at the boat registration office. This office must also be notified within 15 days if a boat is lost, stolen, destroyed, abandoned, or sold.

To transfer boat ownership, form REV-336 must be completed and signed by the applicant and registered owner(s). If the registered owner(s) is/are not available, a notarized bill of sale, signed by the registered owner(s), may be substituted. (Sales tax payment must still be collected if applicable). It is unlawful for a person purchasing or acquiring a previously registered boat to operate that boat in Pennsylvania until the registration is transferred to the new owner.

A 60-day Temporary Registration is issued by authorized agents so the boat can be used immediately. Depending on the date of issuance, the temporary registration may be valid for up to 89 days.

Note: All powered and titled boats used for pleasure are taxable. Proof of payment of sales tax is required at the time of registration.

Vessels must be registered in the state in which the boat is primarily used. If the boat is waterborne (including time at a marina slip or mooring) on Pennsylvania waters more than on waters of another state, it must be registered in Pennsylvania regardless of where the owner lives. Reciprocal privileges are granted to boats with valid registration in other states for up to 60 days.

Note: A Pennsylvania Use Tax is charged for any boat owned by a Pennsylvania resident if that boat is at any time brought into the Commonwealth regardless of where it is registered. There is an exception for casual sales of unpowered boats. Credit is given for tax paid to other states.