Coast Guard Bans Boaters From Summer Firework Zones

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 They’re removing six outdated or duplicate requirements to make things clearer and easier while matching international standards.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.

2026-20491, Safety Zone; Red Bull Flugtag, Intercoastal Waterway, Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL

The Coast Guard wants to create a temporary safety zone in Biscayne Bay, Miami, on October 31, 2026, for the Red Bull Flugtag event where homemade flying machines launch off a 22-foot deck. This zone will keep people and boats at least 200 feet away to stay safe from flying debris and crashes. If you’re near the water, expect some restrictions, and you can share your thoughts by October 21, 2026.

2026-20477, Security Zone; Patapsco River, Baltimore, MD

On October 6, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary security zone on the Patapsco River in Baltimore to keep everyone safe during a visit by important officials protected by the Secret Service. Boats and people can’t enter this area unless they get special permission. This quick change helps prevent any trouble and keeps the river safe without costing anyone money.

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.

Previous: 2026-10261, Safety Zone; Cheboygan River, Cheboygan, MI

The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone on the Cheboygan River in Michigan from May 18 to May 31, 2026, to protect people and boats while repairs happen on flood-damaged dam gates and cables. No one can enter this area without special permission, keeping everyone safe and the environment protected. This quick action means boaters need to plan ahead and avoid the zone during these dates.

Next: 2026-10263, Reporting Deadline Extension for the Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule Under Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) Section 8(d)

The EPA is giving chemical manufacturers and petroleum refineries an extra year to submit their health and safety data reports under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The new deadline is May 21, 2027, giving companies more time to gather and send in their info without rushing. This extension helps ensure better data quality and avoids any penalties for late submissions during this extra year.