Coast Guard Seals Off San Pedro Bay for Sunflower Cargo Hazards
Published Date: 3/17/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting March 17 through April 30, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in San Pedro Channel and San Pedro Bay, CA, to keep people and boats safe while damaged cargo is removed from the vessel OOCL SUNFLOWER. No one can enter this zone without special permission, protecting everyone from possible dangers and environmental harm. This rule kicks in quickly and affects anyone navigating these waters during this time.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
500‑yard Safety Zone Around OOCL SUNFLOWER
If you operate a boat in San Pedro Channel or San Pedro Bay, CA, you may not enter the safety zone—defined as a 500 yard radius around the vessel OOCL SUNFLOWER (IMO # 9949728)—unless the Captain of the Port Los Angeles--Long Beach or a designated representative authorizes you. The safety zone is enforced from March 12, 2026, through April 30, 2026 (and the rule is effective from March 17, 2026, through April 30, 2026). To request permission, contact the Captain of the Port on VHF‑FM channel 16 or by telephone at (310) 521‑3801.
Small Businesses: Contact and RFA Notice
The rule states the Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis does not apply because notice and comment were waived, and it tells small businesses affected by the safety zone to contact the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman at 1‑888‑REG‑FAIR (1‑888‑734‑3247) or the Coast Guard contact listed in the rule. This provides a channel for small businesses that believe the safety zone affects their operations during the March 12, 2026 through April 30, 2026 enforcement period.
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Key Dates
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