Coast Guard Sets Security Zones for Tall Ships
Published Date: 5/20/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up temporary security zones on the Lower Mississippi River from May 24 to June 1, 2026, to keep everyone safe during the New Orleans Sail 250 event. These zones will limit who can enter certain river areas, especially around visiting tall ships. If you’re boating there, expect some new rules but no extra fees or costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Fixed security zone on LMR
You cannot enter the Lower Mississippi River waters between mile marker 92.7 and mile marker 98 near New Orleans without permission from the Captain of the Port from 12:01 a.m. on May 24, 2026, through 11:59 p.m. on June 1, 2026. The fixed security zone covers MM 92.7 (29°57'24" N, 090°01'42" W) to MM 98 (29°54'56" N, 90°04'52" W).
Moving vessel protection rules
For designated protected vessels transiting between the Southwest Pass entrance lighted buoy "SW" and Lower Mississippi River mile marker 98, no one may come within 100 feet of the protected vessel, and vessels within 500 yards must transit at the minimum safe speed to maintain a safe course. These moving security zone rules apply during transits and while the protected vessels are moored or anchored from 12:01 a.m. on May 24, 2026, through 11:59 p.m. on June 1, 2026.
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