Coast Guard Proposes Tweaks to Eastern Lakes Event Zones
Published Date: 5/27/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to update safety zones for yearly events in the Eastern Great Lakes to keep everyone safe on the water. This means some old rules will change or go away, and new ones will pop up for boaters and event organizers. If you’re affected, make sure to share your thoughts by June 26, 2026—no extra fees, just safer waters!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Expanded safety zones at multiple events
The Coast Guard is increasing or changing safety zone sizes for several annual events. Examples: Festival of the Fish safety zone expands from a 420-foot radius to a 500-foot radius; Lorain Independence Day expands from 700 feet to 750 feet; Conneaut Red, White, and Boomfest expands from a 570-foot radius to a 600-foot radius; Fairport Harbor Mardi Gras increases from a 275-foot radius to a 340-foot radius; Madison Light Up the Park increases from a 210-foot radius to a 400-foot radius. Wine and Walleye Festival changes from a point 280-foot radius to barriers that better represent the event area.
Event date, time, and area adjustments
The rule moves or adjusts the dates, times, and defined areas for some annual events. Examples: Blazing Paddles is moved from June to July and its coordinates are adjusted; Madison Light Up the Park is moved from the 1st weekend in September to "on or around the 2nd Saturday in August" and its launch coordinate is adjusted to 41°50'18.35" N, 81°02'52.94" W; Tri CLE Rock Roll Run changes the safety zone shape from a rectangle to a polygon to better match the race area.
Obsolete event removed from regulation
The Coast Guard proposes to delete the Eastlake Willoughby Grand Prix (currently listed at Sec. 165.939(g)(3)) from the table of annual safety zones because it is obsolete.
Coast Guard notes minimal small-entity impact
The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency says vessel traffic can generally transit around regulated areas, the zones affect small areas for a few hours, enforcement is usually when traffic is low, Broadcast Notices to Mariners will be issued, and vessels may request permission to enter a regulated area from the Captain of the Port.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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