Coast Guard Updates Milwaukee River Race Safety Rules
Published Date: 12/17/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to update rules for boat races on the Milwaukee River to keep everyone safe and the water clean. They’re removing old rules for a swim event and moving the big Milwaukee River Challenge race from September to early October. If you’re involved in boating or local events, these changes could affect your plans starting next year, and you have until January 16, 2026, to share your thoughts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Milwaukee River Challenge date moved
The Coast Guard proposes changing the Milwaukee River Challenge date from "1 day; the third Saturday of September" to "1 day; on or around early October." If you run or attend this race in Milwaukee, WI, the event timing and any plans tied to the old September date could shift to early October each year.
Restricted access during regulated event area
During the regulated event on the Milwaukee River, no vessel or person may enter the regulated area without permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or their designated representative. If you boat in Milwaukee, WI, you may be stopped or have to get authorization to transit the event area on event day.
Removal of outdated swim event rule
The Coast Guard proposes deleting the Special Local Regulation entry for the Milwaukee Open Water Swim because that event no longer occurs. If you were previously restricted by that rule in Milwaukee, WI, the regulation text for that swim would be removed.
Coast Guard expects minimal small-entity impact
The Coast Guard certifies this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. They say the regulated area would only be impacted for less than 8 hours, the enforcement time is when vessel traffic is normally low, the Coast Guard will issue a Broadcast Notice to Mariners on VHF channel 16, and vessels may request permission to enter.
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