AIS Inspection Stations officially open for the summer season on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

During the off-season (October – April), new permit sales are available by appointment only. If you are a lakeside resident or want to get your permit before the summer rush, you can schedule an appointment in advance at a variety of locations.

How to Book Your Appointment

1. Visit the Online Booking Site – Note: Online bookings are added to our calendar in real-time and are the fastest way to secure a slot.

2. Select your location:

Bloedel Donovan (Lake Whatcom): 2214 Electric Avenue, Bellingham 

Lake Samish Boat Launch: East Lake Samish Drive, Bellingham 

Sudden Valley Marina (Lake Whatcom): Gate 1, 1 Marina Drive, Bellingham 

South Bay (Lake Whatcom): South Bay Drive, Sedro-Woolley 

Pacific Street Operations Center: 2221 Pacific Street, Bellingham (Please park near 2200 Nevada Street; a staff member will meet you outside). 

Your Home: Available for City of Bellingham residents or lakeside residents.

3. Choose a date and time.

4. Enter your details: Name, address, boat types and quantities, contact information, and any special instructions.

What to Bring & How to Prepare

To ensure a smooth inspection, please have the following ready:

• Your Vessel(s): Must be Clean, Drain, and Dry. Permits are only issued after a passed inspection.

• Payment: We accept Card or Tap-to-Pay on-site. You can also pre-pay online. Note: Cash and checks are not accepted.

• Discount Code: If you completed the AIS Online Awareness Course, have your code ready for $10 off.

• Boating History: Be prepared to tell the inspector where the boat was last in the water.

Accessibility Note: If we are coming to your home or storage facility, please ensure boats are easily accessible and provide any specific gate codes or directions in your booking notes.

Beat the Summer Rush!

Even if you aren’t hitting the water until the summer, getting permitted now saves you time later. 

• Plan Ahead: Appointment availability is limited in the early season as we train new staff and prepare for summer. 

• First-Come, First-Served: Slots fill up fast! Booking online gives you the best chance at your preferred time. 

• Questions? If we have questions about your booking, we will call the number you provided. You can also reach us at 360-778-7975. 

Pop-Up Inspections

Looking for a convenient way to get your permit? Skip the scheduling process and join us for our “Pop-Up” permit events at the Bloedel Donovan check station.

This is the perfect opportunity to get water-ready while individual appointments are limited.

• When: Thursdays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Dates: Starting May 19 through April 9

• Where: Bloedel Donovan Check Station

Help us spread the word to your boating friends! Let’s get everyone permitted and ready for the season.