Coast Guard Tweaks Duluth Fireworks Safety Zones
Published Date: 6/2/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard wants to update safety rules for yearly events in the Duluth water area, letting them move safety zones a bit instead of sticking to exact spots. This helps protect people, boats, and the environment during events like fireworks shows. If you’re involved in these events or boating nearby, watch for changes and share your thoughts by July 2, 2026—no extra fees, just smarter safety!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Flexible Locations for Recurring Safety Zones
The Coast Guard would allow limited geographic flexibility for recurring event safety zones in the Captain of the Port Duluth Zone so that listed coordinates are treated as approximate rather than fixed. Many listed fireworks and event zones use launch-site arcs with a radius of up to 1,120 feet; if locations shift slightly, the COTP Duluth will publish exact enforcement coordinates in advance by a Notification of Enforcement in the Federal Register and by Broadcast Notice to Mariners.
Temporary Navigation Restrictions During Events
During enforcement periods for these recurring events, no vessel or person may enter, transit, or anchor within the safety zone without permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) Duluth or their on-scene representative. Vessel operators may request permission via VHF Channel 16; enforcement generally covers small areas for a few hours and the Coast Guard says Broadcast Notice to Mariners will allow affected vessels time to adjust plans.
Small Entities: Coast Guard Certifies Minimal Economic Impact
The Coast Guard certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 605(b)) that this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. If you believe your small business or organization would be significantly affected, the Coast Guard asks you to submit a comment explaining how by July 2, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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