Skip to main content

Lake Use Permit Fees

Lake Use Permits are required for all vessels on Big Bear Lake.

This includes rigid hulled and inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Boards (SUPs), Kayaks, Canoes, and Float Tubes. You can purchase permits at either of the Public Launch Ramps, the BBMWD Main Office*, and at many of the private marinas. The BBMWD also offers a Mail-In Permit form if you would like to receive your permit by mail. Please keep in mind that the Mail-In Permit form will take extra time as it requires processing and is subject to Postal Service timelines.

*Please note that the BBMWD Main Office does not do inspections on any vessels

Mail-In Permit Request Form
Permit Fees for 2024

Registered Vessels

  • Motorized vessles up to 26 feet and sailboats over 8 feet in length, power boats, perosnal watercraft, eFoil boards
  • All vessels must have current state registration.
Seasonal PermitValid April 1, 2024 - March 31, 2025$130
The amount of a single daily permit may be applied toward the purchase of a seasonal permit
Daily Permit RatesConsecutive days must be purchased during single transaction.
One Day$40.00
 Two Day$60.00
 Three Day$80.00
 Four Day$100.00
 Five Day$120.00

Non-Registered Vessels

Non-motorized vessles and sailboats 8 feet or less in lenght, kayaks, canoes, sailboards, stand-up paddleboards, fishing float tubes

Seasonal PermitValid April 1, 2024 - March 31, 2025$55 Lake Use Fee + $5 Quagga Prevention program surcharge = $60.00
The amount of a single daily permit may be applied toward the purchase of a seasonal permit
Daily Permit RatesConsecutive days must be purchased during single transaction. 
 One Day$20 + $5 = $25.00
 Two Day$30 + $5 = $35.00
 Three Day$40 + $5 = $45.00
 Four Day$50 + $5 = $55.00
  • Permits must be displayed on vessel and is non-transferable
  • Lake use permits are available at the public launch ramps, the MWD office, and at most marinas.
  • Lake use permits may be revoked for violation of any law.
  • All vessles must be inspected prior to entry into Big Bear Lake.
  • A surcharge of $10 will be assessed for the purchase of alake use permit from a Lake Patrol Officer while on the water.
  • A surcharge of $20 will be assessed for the purchase of a lake use permit if the transaction cannot be processed on the water and a Lake Patrol Officer must escort the vessel back to a launch ramp to complete the transaction.
A sign detailing the 2024 permit fees for vessels on Big Bear Lake, including rates for registered and non-registered boats.