Colorado Boat Registration for Lakewood Residents

Colorado Boat Registration Requirements

Colorado law requires registration for all motorized boats and sailboats operated on Colorado waters. Here's what Lakewood residents need to know.

• All motorized vessels must be registered within 60 days of purchase
• Sailboats over 12 feet in length require registration
• Out-of-state boats used in Colorado for more than 60 consecutive days must register
• Registration is valid for 3 years from date of issue
• Renewal notices are sent to the address on file before expiration
• Personal watercraft (jet skis) follow the same registration rules as boats
• Non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, rafts) do not require registration

Registration Fees and Costs

Colorado boat registration fees are based on length and age of the vessel:

Required Documentation for Lakewood Residents

When registering your boat in Colorado, you'll need:

• Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) for new boats
• Bill of sale showing purchase price and seller information
• Previous registration or title from another state (if applicable)
• Proof of Colorado residency (driver's license or utility bill)
• Completed Colorado Boat Registration Application (DR 2704)
• VIN inspection form if the boat is from out of state
• Lien release if the boat had a loan that was paid off
• Sales tax payment - Jefferson County rate applies to Lakewood (varies)

Titling Your Boat in Colorado

Colorado requires titles for certain boats to establish ownership:

• Boats 1985 or newer manufactured by a licensed manufacturer require a title
• Older boats (pre-1985) typically don't have titles available
• When purchasing a used boat, the seller must sign over the title
• If buying from out of state, the title must be properly assigned
• Lost titles can be replaced through Colorado Parks & Wildlife
• Boats sold without a title require a bill of sale and affidavit
• Title transfers must be completed within 60 days of sale

Where to Register in Lakewood

Lakewood residents can register boats at several locations:

• Online through Colorado Parks & Wildlife website (most convenient)
• Mail applications to CPW Boat Registration, Denver office
• In person at any Colorado Parks & Wildlife office
• Some Lakewood vehicle registration offices may process boat registrations
• Processing time: online is immediate, mail takes 7-10 business days
• You can operate with a copy of your application for up to 60 days while awaiting your registration

Colorado Boating Regulations for Lakewood Boaters

Once registered, you must follow these rules when boating at Bear Creek Lake and other Colorado waters:

• Display registration numbers on both sides of the bow in 3-inch block letters
• Registration decal must be affixed 3 inches behind and in line with the numbers
• Keep your registration certificate on board at all times
• Children under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway
• All boats must have a USCG-approved life jacket for each person on board
• Fire extinguisher required on boats with enclosed engine compartments
• Sound-producing device (horn or whistle) required on boats over 16 feet
• Navigation lights required for operation between sunset and sunrise
• Operating under the influence (OUI) is illegal - 0.08% BAC limit applies

Bear Creek Lake Specific Requirements

When boating at Bear Creek Lake from Lakewood, be aware of:

• Wakeless zones near the marina and swimming areas
• Seasonal water level restrictions may affect ramp access
• Mussel inspection stations - stop before launching if posted
• Boat cleaning to prevent invasive species spread
• Park entry fees in addition to boat registration
• Reservoir-specific rules posted at the entrance and ramps