Boat Launch Permits

Launch Permits and Fees

Seattle Parks and Recreation manages 7 motorized boat launches on Puget Sound, Lake Washington, and the Ship Canal. A permit is required for anybody using a ramp lane regardless of where you park your vehicle and trailer.

The two launches not needing permits are Sunnyside Ave NW and 14th Ave NW, but note there is little to no parking.

Stan Sayres Boat Ramp on Lake WA Blvd. is mostly closed while SPR awaits federal permits to begin repair work. For Stan Sayers, limited launching is allowed for boats and vehicles that can fit in between the block barriers to use just the central portion of the ramp.

Download our Permit Application

Single Day Launch Permits

A single-day launch permit costs $12 and is good until midnight of the date purchased. To pay the $12 fee, you can use the gray fee machine at the launch, OR the kiosk, as directed below:

Pay by gray fee machine
Pay $12 (card only) and display the permit on your dashboard.  

Pay by kiosk
Place $12 (cash or check) in the colored envelope available at the kiosk. Retain the flap for proof of payment. Place the envelope in the metal canister. Display the flap on your dashboard. The date must be clearly displayed to be considered valid.

Overnight Permits

In addition to the $12 launch fee, you can purchase an overnight permit for $12 per night (4 nights maximum).

• At kiosk, place money (cash or check) in the colored envelope available at the kiosk.
• Retain the flap for proof of payment.
• Place the envelope in the metal canister.
• Display the flap on your dashboard. The date must be clearly displayed to be considered valid.

Annual Permits

An annual permit costs $150 (up to 4 night stay permitted). Annual boat launch permits can be purchased via phone, fax, mail or in person, using cash, check, or credit card. Download our Permit Application near the top of the page.