Coast Guard Bans Boats Near Tall Ship Cannon Blasts
Published Date: 5/21/2026
Rule
Summary
From June 19 to June 21, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone near the Great Bridge Bridge on the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal in Chesapeake, VA. This zone keeps boats and people at least 250 yards away to stay safe during blank cannon fire from a visiting Tall Ship. If you want to enter, you’ll need special permission, but no fees or costs are involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
250‑Yard Safety Zone for Tall Ship
From June 19 through June 21, 2026, a safety zone around a visiting Tall Ship near the Great Bridge Bridge on the Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal in Chesapeake, VA keeps people and vessels at least 250 yards away. You may not enter the zone without permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or a designated representative; to request permission contact VHF‑FM channel 16 or call 877-722-5727. The rule states no fees or costs are required to seek permission.
Limited Enforcement Time Windows
The safety zone is effective June 19–21, 2026, but will be enforced only during specific hours: June 19 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.; June 20 and June 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. These specific windows mean navigation is restricted only during those listed times.
Small Businesses Can Seek Assistance
The rule notes the Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis was not required and instructs small businesses affected by the safety zone to contact the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman or the Regional Fairness Boards by calling 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). The Coast Guard says it will not retaliate against small entities that question or complain about the rule.
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