A pair of paddlers make their way up the Deschutes River in October 2020.

As the weather warms up, the Oregon State Marine Board reminds the public that Waterway Access Permits are required for any nonmotorized watercraft 10 feet or longer. That includes stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, inflatable watercraft and drift boats.

The marine board’s Waterway Access Permit program enters its fifth year of implementation, but the agency says compliance remains low compared to other boating requirements.

The Marine Board uses the funds to improve nonmotorized access to lakes and streams. Funding is also used to increase paddling education opportunities in underserved communities.

Since starting the program in 2020, the agency has approved more than $2.7 million in waterway access grants. This includes funding to improve waterway access at McKay Park in Bend, Ochoco Reservoir, the Upper Deschutes River and Lake Billy Chinook.

The permits are transferable to other nonmotorized boats, and youths 14 and younger are exempt. Event organizers can purchase bulk seven-day permit certificates.

Options include a seven-day permit for $5, an annual permit for $17 and a two-year permit for $30. A $1.50 portal provider fee is charged with each transaction. Boat rental businesses can purchase permits at a discounted rate.

To purchase a permit go to boat.oregon.gov, then click on Waterway Access Permit FAQs under Equipment and Regulations.