Coast Guard Draws 100-Yard Bubble Around Swimmers
Published Date: 6/23/2026
Rule
Summary
On July 18, 2026, from 7 a.m. to noon, the Coast Guard is setting up a safety zone around the Mackinac Bridge to keep boats and people clear during a big swim event with about 400 swimmers. If you’re boating nearby, you’ll need special permission to enter this 100-yard zone. This temporary rule helps keep everyone safe without costing you a dime!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mackinac Bridge 100‑yard safety zone
On July 18, 2026, from 7 a.m. to noon, all boats and people are prohibited from entering the safety zone that covers navigable waters within 100 yards of the center span of the Mackinac Bridge between Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, MI, unless you get permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP). To request permission, contact the COTP or their representative on VHF‑FM channel 16 or by phone at (906) 635-3237.
Minimal small‑business impact; permission available
The Coast Guard certified under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this temporary safety zone will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. Vessel traffic may safely transit around the small zone, the Coast Guard will issue a Broadcast Notice to Mariners on VHF‑FM channel 16, and vessels can request permission to enter the zone from the COTP during the enforcement period (7 a.m. to noon on July 18, 2026).
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20087, Clarification of Certain Mariner Training Requirements
The Coast Guard wants to simplify training rules for certain mariners, like Masters and Officers in charge of smaller vessels and engineers with big engines. They’re removing six outdated or duplicate requirements to make things clearer and easier while matching international standards. If you’re affected, get ready to share your thoughts by December 30, 2026—no extra costs, just smoother sailing ahead!
2026-13137, Marine Casualty Reporting on the Outer Continental Shelf
Starting July 30, 2026, companies working on the Outer Continental Shelf must report marine accidents based on who’s involved, not just where they happen. The rule raises the damage cost that triggers a report from $25,000 to $75,000, saving businesses money and making rules clearer and fairer. This change cuts industry costs by over $10,000 in 10 years and aligns U.S. rules with international standards for offshore activities.
2026-08699, Shipping Safety Fairways Along the Atlantic Coast
The Coast Guard is making the Atlantic Coast safer for ships by setting up special shipping lanes from New York to Florida. They’re reopening the comment period until June 22, 2026, so everyone can share their thoughts before the rules are finalized. This affects ship operators and coastal communities, aiming to keep sea travel smooth and safe without extra costs right now.
2026-20632, Special Local Regulations; San Francisco Bay Navy Fleet Week Parade of Ships and Blue Angels Demonstration, San Francisco, CA
From October 8 to 11, 2026, the Coast Guard will block off parts of San Francisco Bay for the Navy Fleet Week Parade of Ships and Blue Angels air show to keep everyone safe. Boats and people who aren’t authorized won’t be allowed in certain areas during specific times. If you’re planning to be on the water, expect some changes and plan ahead to avoid delays or fines.
2026-20527, Area Maritime Security Advisory Committee (AMSC), Eastern Great Lakes, Western New York; Sub-Committee Vacancy
The Coast Guard is looking for someone to fill a spot on the Eastern Great Lakes, Western New York Area Maritime Security Committee. This group helps keep local ports safe by planning and updating security measures. If you want to apply, send your application by October 31, 2026—no cost involved, just a chance to help protect your community’s waterways!
2026-20522, Safety Zone; Luminsea Miami Shootout and Races, Miami Marine Stadium Harbor, Miami FL
From October 22 to 25, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in Miami Marine Stadium Harbor for the Luminsea Miami Shootout powerboat races. This means no boats or people can enter the area unless they get special permission, keeping everyone safe from race-related dangers. If you’re boating nearby, plan ahead to avoid delays—no extra fees, just smooth sailing with a heads-up!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-12547, Tanker Security Program
The Tanker Security Program (TSP) helps keep a fleet of U.S.-flagged tankers ready for national defense and security needs. This final rule updates the program based on feedback and sets new rules for which tankers qualify, including limits on government charters. Starting July 23, 2026, eligible tanker owners can receive payments to support their operations, boosting America’s maritime strength and economy.
Next: 2026-12558, Safety Zone; Detroit River, Trenton, MI
On June 27, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone around the Trenton Channel in the Detroit River to keep boats and people safe during a fireworks show. No one can enter this 250-yard zone from 9:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. unless they get special permission. This quick action helps protect everyone and the environment without any extra costs or delays.