Coast Guard Tweaks Fireworks No-Go Zones Again
Published Date: 5/26/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is updating safety zones for fireworks shows in Virginia’s waterways to keep everyone safe during these annual events. They’re adding three new zones and tweaking one existing zone, all effective May 27, 2026. If you boat or live near the James, Appomattox, Hampton, East, or Elizabeth Rivers, these changes might affect you, but no new fees are involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Safety Zone at James–Appomattox Confluence
If you boat or live near the confluence of the James River and the Appomattox River in Hopewell, VA, a safety zone will be enforced on the fourth or fifth Saturday in June each year. The zone covers all navigable waters within 250 yards of the fireworks barge at position 37°18'52" N, 077°17'12.5" W; in 2026 it will be enforced June 27, 2026 from 9:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Safety Zone on the Hampton River
If you boat or live on the Hampton River in Hampton, VA, a safety zone will cover all navigable waters within a 250-foot radius of a fireworks barge and adjacent launch areas. The zone applies on July 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th each year; beginning July 4, 2026 it will be enforced from 9:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Safety Zone on the East River (Mathews)
If you boat or live on the East River in Mathews, VA, a safety zone will cover all navigable waters within an 800-foot radius of position 37°24'02" N, 076°20'49" W. The zone applies on July 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th each year; beginning July 5, 2026 it will be enforced from 9:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Safety Zone at Town Point Reach (Elizabeth River)
If you boat or live near Town Point Reach on the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, VA, a safety zone will cover all waters within a 500-yard radius of the fireworks barge at approximately 36°50'41" N, 076°17'47" W. The zone will be enforced on one Saturday in June (or June 19th) and on July 4th each year, beginning July 4, 2026, generally from 9:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Access Rules, Notices, and Small-Entity Impact
No vessel or person may enter these safety zones without permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or the COTP’s designated representative; vessels can request permission to enter. The Coast Guard will notify the public of date/time changes via a Broadcast Notice to Mariners; the rule is effective May 27, 2026, imposes no new fees, and the Coast Guard certified it will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
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