Coast Guard Cops Elizabeth River for Thrilling Boat Bash
Published Date: 2/11/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to set up a temporary safety zone on the Elizabeth River Western Branch in Portsmouth, VA, during a boat race. This means only authorized boats can enter the area to keep everyone safe and protect the environment. If you’re affected, watch for updates and get your comments in by March 13, 2026—no fees, just safety first!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Two-Day Navigation Exclusion for Boat Race
On April 15 and April 16, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, the Coast Guard would prohibit any person or vessel that is not registered as a race participant from entering or remaining in the Elizabeth River Western Branch federal navigation channel between Western Branch Buoy 13 (LLNR 9785) and Western Branch Daybeacon 11 (LLNR 9780). Non-participants may request permission to enter from the Captain of the Port, Sector Virginia (COTP) or a designated representative on VHF-FM channel 16 or by telephone at 877-722-5727, and must follow any lawful orders given by the COTP or their representative.
Coast Guard Finds Minimal Small-Business Impact
The Coast Guard certified under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this proposed temporary rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency states vessel traffic can safely transit around the regulated area, the rule affects only a small area for 2 days, enforcement occurs during normally low traffic times, and a Broadcast Notice to Mariners will be issued so small entities can adjust transit plans.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-13137, Marine Casualty Reporting on the Outer Continental Shelf
Starting July 30, 2026, companies working on the Outer Continental Shelf must report marine accidents based on who’s involved, not just where they happen. The rule raises the damage cost that triggers a report from $25,000 to $75,000, saving businesses money and making rules clearer and fairer. This change cuts industry costs by over $10,000 in 10 years and aligns U.S. rules with international standards for offshore activities.
2026-08699, Shipping Safety Fairways Along the Atlantic Coast
The Coast Guard is making the Atlantic Coast safer for ships by setting up special shipping lanes from New York to Florida. They’re reopening the comment period until June 22, 2026, so everyone can share their thoughts before the rules are finalized. This affects ship operators and coastal communities, aiming to keep sea travel smooth and safe without extra costs right now.
2026-14883, Special Local Regulation; Lake Erie, Fairport Harbor, OH
On August 2, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the Coast Guard is setting up a special safety zone on Lake Erie near Fairport Harbor for the Lake Metroparks Pirate Triathlon. Boats and people can’t enter this area unless they get special permission, keeping the 350 athletes safe during the swim and paddle race. This temporary rule helps avoid accidents and keeps the event running smoothly without any extra costs for the public.
2026-14894, Safety Zone; Lake Erie, Avon Lake, OH
On August 1, 2026, from 9 p.m. to 9:45 p.m., the Coast Guard will block off a safety zone on Lake Erie near Avon Lake, OH, to keep everyone safe during a fireworks show. Boats and people can’t enter this area unless they get special permission. This quick action helps protect folks, boats, and the environment without any delays or extra costs.
2026-14895, Safety Zone; Lake St. Clair; New Baltimore, MI
The Coast Guard is setting up a new safety zone on Lake St. Clair near New Baltimore, Michigan to keep everyone safe during special events. This means boats will have to stay out of certain areas for a while, but no fees or big costs are involved. If you’re boating there, watch for the new rules starting soon!
2026-14888, Safety Zone; Ohio Street Beach Swim Course, Lake Michigan, Chicago Harbor, Chicago, IL
On August 8, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., the Coast Guard will block off a safety zone in Lake Michigan near Ohio Street Beach for the Swim Across America race. Boats can’t enter, pass through, or anchor in this area unless they get special permission. This keeps swimmers safe and helps the event run smoothly without any extra costs for the public.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-02747, Establishment of Class E Airspace; Clyde, NC
The FAA wants to create new controlled airspace starting 700 feet above the ground near Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde, NC. This change will help keep flights safe and organized, especially for pilots flying with instruments. If you have thoughts, speak up by March 30, 2026—no costs or big changes for the public, just safer skies!
Next: 2026-02763, Bank Conversions and Mergers, Subpart A-Conversion of Insured Credit Unions to Mutual Savings Banks
The NCUA is making it easier for insured credit unions to become mutual savings banks by cutting some complicated rules and paperwork. This change helps credit union leaders make smarter business choices, saves money, and keeps members well-informed. If you’re involved, get ready to share your thoughts by April 13, 2026!