Louisiana – The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding houseboat owners that all such vessels must be registered with the agency.
State regulations require that any houseboat operated, inhabited, or deployed on Louisiana waters be officially registered to ensure safety and compliance.
Unregistered houseboats can create navigation hazards for boaters and hinder emergency rescue efforts. LDWF defines a houseboat as any vessel primarily used as a temporary or permanent dwelling that lacks an effective means of propulsion for safe movement.
To determine whether a vessel qualifies as a houseboat, officials consider factors such as an enclosed roof, walls, and other structural features that make it suitable for habitation. Additional indicators include doors, windows, electrical wiring, plumbing, appliances, cabinetry, and bedding.
LDWF is committed to enforcing houseboat registration requirements and urges owners to complete the necessary process. Registration applications can be submitted online at [LDWF’s website](https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/title-or-register-your-boat).
Owners must also submit an Affidavit of Ownership of a Non-Motorized Houseboat along with photos of their vessel. Once processed, registrants will receive a copy of their registration and Hull Identification Number (HIN) decals with placement instructions.