Coast Guard Bans Boats Near Mackinac Survey Ships
Published Date: 5/20/2026
Rule
Summary
From June 1 to July 31, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone around two vessels doing underwater surveys in the Straits of Mackinac, Lake Michigan. Boats can’t enter within 500 yards of these vessels during the day unless they get special permission. This keeps everyone safe while important pipeline inspections happen, with no extra costs for the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
500-yard safety zone established
From June 1, 2026 through July 31, 2026, a temporary safety zone covers all waters within a 500-yard radius of the survey vessels Ugle Duckling and Streak in the Straits of Mackinac. No vessel or person may enter that zone between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. each day unless specifically authorized, and the rule states there are no extra costs for the public.
Permission required to enter zone
If you want to enter the safety zone during the enforcement periods (6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., June 1–July 31, 2026), you must get authorization from the Captain of the Port Sector Northern Great Lakes or a designated representative. The rule gives contact methods: VHF-FM channel 16 or telephone (906) 635-3233 to seek permission.
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
2026-20087, Clarification of Certain Mariner Training Requirements
The Coast Guard wants to simplify training rules for certain mariners, like Masters and Officers in charge of smaller vessels and engineers with big engines. They’re removing six outdated or duplicate requirements to make things clearer and easier while matching international standards. If you’re affected, get ready to share your thoughts by December 30, 2026—no extra costs, just smoother sailing ahead!
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.
2026-20224, Special Local Regulations; Marine Events Within the USCG East District-Ocean City, NJ
On October 3, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Coast Guard will enforce special rules for the Ocean City Chase Race in New Jersey to keep everyone safe on the water. Boat operators in the race area must follow instructions from Coast Guard patrols and can only enter with permission, moving slowly to avoid wakes. This means some boaters might need to plan ahead and expect delays during the event.
2026-20223, Special Local Regulations; Marine Events Within the USCG East District-Philadelphia, PA
On October 3, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce special rules on parts of the Delaware River in Philadelphia for the Philadelphia Cup Regatta to keep everyone safe. Boat operators in the area must follow directions from Coast Guard officials and can only enter the zone with permission, moving slowly to avoid wakes. This temporary change runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and helps make the event smooth and secure without extra costs.
2026-20122, Safety Zone; St. Lawrence River, Massena, NY
From September 30 to October 3, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up two temporary safety zones on the St. Lawrence River near Massena, NY. These zones keep boats and people out to protect everyone during the replacement of overhead electrical wires. If you’re boating there, expect restricted access but no fees or long-term changes.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-10050, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027; and Basic Health Program
Starting in 2027, health insurance plans on federal and state marketplaces will see new rules to make coverage fairer and easier to use. These changes affect insurance companies, agents, and people buying plans, including new fees, penalties, and better protections for those with hardships. Expect updates on plan quality, dental coverage limits, and longer-term catastrophic plans, all aiming to keep your health coverage solid and affordable.
Next: 2026-10061, Special Local Regulation; Red River Rumble F1 Powerboat Showdown, Shreveport, LA
From May 22 to May 24, 2026, the Coast Guard will block off part of the Red River near Shreveport, LA, for the thrilling Red River Rumble F1 Powerboat Showdown. Only authorized boats can enter this area during race hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to keep everyone safe from high-speed boat action. If you’re boating nearby, plan ahead to avoid delays or detours!