Coast Guard Sets Temporary Safety Zones on Great Lakes
Published Date: 6/11/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up safety zones on the water for fun annual events in the Eastern Great Lakes this July 2026. Boat operators must follow rules and listen to Coast Guard directions during these times to keep everyone safe. These temporary zones might delay some boaters but won’t cost extra money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Safety Zones for July 2026 Events
The Coast Guard will enforce safety zones for four annual events in the Captain of the Port Eastern Great Lakes zone: Lorain Independence Day on July 4, 2026 from 9:15 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.; Conneaut Red, White, and Boom Over Lake Erie on July 4, 2026 from 9:15 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Fairport Harbor Mardi Gras on July 5, 2026 from 9:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; and Sheffield Lake Community Days on July 24, 2026 from 9:30 p.m. to 10:50 p.m. During those enforcement periods, entry, transiting, or anchoring in the regulated areas is prohibited unless authorized by the Captain of the Port or a designated representative; these temporary zones may delay some boaters but will not impose extra money costs.
Must Request Permission and Follow Orders
If you are operating a vessel in a regulated area during an enforcement period, you must obtain authorization from the Captain of the Port Eastern Great Lakes or a designated representative (requests may be made via VHF-FM channel 16) and obey their directions. While inside a safety zone, all vessels must operate at the minimum speed necessary to maintain a safe course.
Advance Notices and Potential Early Permission
The Coast Guard will provide advance notice of enforcement via Broadcast Notice to Mariners or Local Notice to Mariners so the maritime community is informed before the listed enforcement periods. If the Captain of the Port determines a safety zone need not be enforced for the full published duration, he may use a Broadcast Notice to Mariners to grant general permission to enter the zone earlier.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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