Coast Guard Bans Boats from Potomac Fireworks
Published Date: 7/6/2026
Rule
Summary
On July 11, 2026, the Coast Guard will set up a temporary safety zone on the Potomac River near Fairview Beach, Virginia, to keep everyone safe during a fireworks show. Boats and people can’t enter this zone unless they get special permission. The zone will be active from 8:15 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with a backup date on July 12 if the weather cancels the show.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary 600‑Foot Boating Exclusion
You may not enter the Potomac River safety zone within a 600‑foot radius of the fireworks barge (approx. position 38°20'00.00" N, 077°14'48.31" W, about 700 feet from Fairview Beach, Virginia) during the enforcement period. The zone is enforced from 8:15 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on July 11, 2026, or, if the event is postponed for weather, from 8:15 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on July 12, 2026. To enter you must get permission from the Captain of the Port or a designated representative (contact on VHF‑FM channel 16 or phone 410‑576‑2693).
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