Milwaukee Waters Get Summer Drone and Firework Cages
Published Date: 5/26/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up safety zones on Lake Michigan near Milwaukee for several big events with fireworks and drone shows this summer. Boats can’t enter or anchor in these zones during specific times in June, July, and August 2026 unless they get special permission. This keeps everyone safe and the water clear, so plan ahead if you’re boating nearby!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Boaters barred from Milwaukee Harbor
You cannot enter, transit, or anchor in the specified safety zone in Milwaukee Harbor (Lake Michigan) during the listed dates and times unless you have permission. The safety zone is the waters within Milwaukee Harbor bounded by the coordinates 43°02.000' N, 087°53.883' W; 43°01.733' N, 087°53.883' W; 43°01.733' N, 087°53.417' W; and 43°02.000' N, 087°53.417' W, and is enforced on the dates and times listed in the Federal Register notice (June–August 2026, with one entry dated July 10, 2025).
Permission and Coast Guard orders required
If you need to enter, move within, or exit the safety zone during enforcement times, you must obtain permission from the Captain of the Port Lake Michigan or a designated on-scene representative and obey all lawful orders. The Coast Guard will announce enforcement periods by Broadcast Notice to Mariners and an on-scene representative can be reached on VHF-FM Channel 16.
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Key Dates
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