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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Previous: 2026-13554 — Special Local Regulations; Marine Events Within the Coast Guard East District
From July 10 to 12, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce special rules around Sparrows Point, MD, during the Tiki Lee's Shootout on the River Airshow to keep everyone safe on the water. Boat operators near the airshow must follow instructions from Coast Guard patrols during set hours. These temporary rules help protect people without charging fees but require cooperation during the event times.
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