Coast Guard Publishes Ghost Zones from 2025 Past
Published Date: 1/8/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is letting everyone know about temporary safety and security rules that were active in early 2025 but expired before they could be officially published. These rules affect boaters, event organizers, and waterfront businesses by setting up safety zones and special event regulations to keep things safe and secure. While these rules didn’t cost money directly, they helped protect people and property during important events and emergencies.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Safety & Security Zones Enforced
If you operate a boat or run a waterfront business, the Coast Guard temporarily set safety and security zones at specific waterways that were effective primarily between January 2025 and March 2025 (for example, St. Croix on 1/2/2025 and Troy Locks to Tarrytown, NY on 3/31/2025). These zones limited access to parts of the waterway while they were in effect and were enforced by Coast Guard patrols even though the rules expired before Federal Register publication.
Special Local Rules for Marine Events
If you organize or attend regattas or marine events, the Coast Guard issued special local regulations to enhance safety for participants and spectators, with examples effective during the period between January and March 2025 (for example, Lake Havasu, AZ on 2/22/2025). These rules governed event areas and safety measures while in effect.
Enforcement Notices Issued but Not Published
If you are a mariner, the Coast Guard issued notifications of enforcement for some recurring regulations that became effective primarily between January and March 2025 but were not published in the Federal Register before the enforcement period ended. The Coast Guard informed the public through Local Notices to Mariners, press releases, patrol vessels, and by posting the notices to their dockets.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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