Coast Guard Blocks River Access for Baltimore Fleet Week
Published Date: 5/8/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting June 24, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce new safety rules on the Patapsco River in Baltimore during Fleet Week events, blocking unauthorized boats from entering certain areas between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. This change helps keep everyone safe during the exciting Air Show Baltimore and Fleet Week celebrations. If you’re boating nearby, plan ahead to avoid fines or delays!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Patapsco River exclusion zone
Starting June 24, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce a regulated safety zone on the Patapsco River in Baltimore that prohibits persons and vessels from entering the regulated area without authorization. In 2026, enforcement will occur from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day from June 24 to June 28; the rule is effective June 8, 2026.
How to request entry during enforcement
If you are not an event participant or at-berth vessel, you must get permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) Maryland-National Capital Region or the Coast Guard Patrol Commander to enter the regulated area. Vessel operators request permission by contacting the COTP or PATCOM on VHF-FM channel 16.
Vessel conduct rules inside zone
Vessels allowed in the regulated area must operate at a safe speed that minimizes wake and must follow directions from official patrol vessels. The air show aerobatics areas within the regulated area are restricted to Air Show Baltimore participants.
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