Coast Guard Locks Down Texas Channel for Underwater Pipeline Cleanup
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in the La Quinta Channel near Ingleside, TX, from December 19 to 24, 2025, to keep everyone safe while a submerged pipeline is removed. Boats and people can’t enter this zone unless they get special permission. The exact day of enforcement depends on weather and will be announced ahead of time, so plan accordingly!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary no‑entry zone for La Quinta Channel
You may not enter the La Quinta Ship Channel safety zone (coordinates given in the rule) between December 18, 2025 and December 24, 2025, except on the one enforcement day during that period when entry is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port. The enforcement day and times will be announced in advance and depend on weather.
How to get permission to enter the zone
If you need to enter the safety zone, you must get authorization from the Captain of the Port or a designated representative by contacting them on VHF‑FM channel 16 (156.8 MHz) or by telephone at 1‑800‑874‑2143. Those in the zone must follow any lawful orders from the Captain of the Port or their representative.
Small businesses can seek help and report impacts
The rule notes that the Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis does not apply because notice and comment were waived, and it tells small businesses affected by the rule to contact the person in the rule or the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman via 1‑888‑REG‑FAIR (1‑888‑734‑3247).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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