Coast Guard Locks Down NYC Waters for July 4th Fireworks
Published Date: 6/13/2025
Rule
Summary
On the 4th of July, the Coast Guard will block off parts of the Lower East River and New York Harbor to keep everyone safe during the fireworks show. Boats won’t be allowed near the fireworks barge, and four special viewing zones will be set up. This means boaters need to plan ahead and expect some waterway closures around the holiday, but no fees are involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Waterway closures near fireworks barge
On the 4th of July the Coast Guard will control vessel movement and prohibit all vessel traffic from entering the fireworks barge buffer zone in the Lower East River and New York Harbor (Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY). These closures apply immediately before, during, and after the fireworks display, so boaters should expect temporary access restrictions on those waters.
Four special viewing zones established
The Coast Guard will establish four separate viewing areas in the Lower East River and New York Harbor for the 4th of July fireworks display. If you plan to watch from a boat, you will need to use those designated viewing areas and avoid restricted zones around the fireworks barge.
No fees for closures or viewing zones
The rule notes that boaters must plan for closures and viewing zones on the 4th of July, and that no fees are involved for these Coast Guard actions. You will not be charged a fee by the Coast Guard for the temporary closures or the established viewing areas.
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