be ready for the water
Required Watercraft Stickers & Registration
All boats operating on the Chain O’ Lakes are required by law to display a current Fox Waterway Agency Sticker. When you purchase your sticker, you’re helping fund the maintenance, safety, and long-term protection of the lakes and rivers throughout the Fox Waterway.
The sticker color changes each year and is valid from January 1 through December 31. Each sticker includes a unique barcode number, expiration date, and a letter identifying the type of sticker.
In addition to the Fox Waterway Agency sticker, watercraft must also display a current state registration decal for its state of registration. Illinois state stickers are issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and can be purchased or renewed online at dnr.illinois.gov or by calling 1-866-867-3542.
First Time Sticker Purchase
Purchase your sticker online, at the Fox Waterway Agency office or at one of our satellite locations throughout Lake and McHenry county.
Sticker Renewal
Renew your sticker online, by mail, at the Fox Waterway Agency office or at one of our satellite locations.
Satellite Locations
You can purchase your Fox Waterway Agency boat sticker in person at several convenient satellite locations. Please note that choosing to buy your sticker at a satellite location includes a $10 additional processing fee. If you choose to purchase your sticker online, there is no “in-person fee”, making it the easiest and most convenient option.
Instructions
Watch this quick video tutorial for instructions on how to use the new system or use our easy step-by-step guide to purchasing your sticker.
