The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Reminds Houseboat Owners That Registration is Mandatory

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) reminds houseboat owners that registration is mandatory.

This requirement, effective since January 1, 2019, mandates that all houseboats on Louisiana waters must be registered with LDWF. According to the rules, every houseboat that is operated, occupied, inhabited, used, or otherwise deployed in Louisiana waters needs to be registered.

A houseboat is defined as any vessel designed or used primarily as a temporary or permanent dwelling without an effective means of safe navigation. To determine if a vessel qualifies as a "houseboat," LDWF uses the standard that a reasonable observer would consider the vessel capable of serving as a residence, even temporarily.

 This determination involves factors such as whether the vessel has a roof, is enclosed, or has multiple walls or structures that protect inhabitants from the elements. Additional considerations include the presence of doors, windows, electrical wiring, plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, bedding, or other typical dwelling features.

Houseboats, whether commercially manufactured or homemade, do not require a title.

After filing the registration with LDWF, applicants will receive their registration and HIN decals by mail, along with instructions for placing the HIN on the registered houseboat.

To register a houseboat, visit LDWF's registration page.

For more information, call 225.765.2898.

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