Fleet Week Boat Restrictions: Keep Patapsco River Safe and Fun
Published Date: 1/27/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is updating rules to keep the Patapsco River safe during Fleet Week events in Baltimore from June 24 to July 1, 2026. During this time, only authorized boats can enter certain areas to protect everyone on the water. If you’re boating nearby, plan ahead and watch for these new restrictions—no extra fees, just safer waters!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary No‑Entry Zone During Fleet Week
From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day between June 24, 2026 and July 1, 2026, most persons and vessels are prohibited from entering specified waters of the Patapsco River in Baltimore unless authorized by the Captain of the Port or the Coast Guard Patrol Commander. The restriction covers the regulated area defined in 33 CFR 100.501 around the Inner Harbor during Air Show Baltimore and Fleet Week.
How to Get Permission to Transit
If you are not an event participant or an official patrol vessel, you must request permission from the Captain of the Port or the Coast Guard Patrol Commander to enter or pass through the regulated area; vessel operators should request permission on VHF‑FM channel 16. If permission is granted, you must follow directions, operate at a safe speed that minimizes wake, and comply with instructions from official patrol vessels.
Aerobatics Areas Reserved for Participants
The air show aerobatics areas within the regulated areas are restricted only to Air Show Baltimore participants; non-participants are not permitted in aerobatics areas during the enforcement period.
Coast Guard Says No Significant Small‑Business Impact
The Coast Guard certifies, under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The Coast Guard also says it will work with small businesses to organize transit and minimize impacts.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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