Virginia Beach Fireworks Trigger Weekly Ocean Closures
Published Date: 7/10/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in the North Atlantic Ocean near Virginia Beach to keep people and boats safe during fireworks shows. From July 10 to September 6, boats can’t enter the zone on Wednesday and Sunday nights between 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. unless they get special permission. This helps prevent accidents from falling fireworks debris without costing anyone extra money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Boaters barred from 1,000-yard zone
You may not enter the safety zone in the North Atlantic Ocean within a 1,000-yard radius of the fireworks barge off Virginia Beach (approx. 36°51'12.81" N, 75°58'11.60" W) on Wednesday and Sunday nights from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. between July 8, 2026 and September 6, 2026. Vessels and people in that area must stay out during those enforcement hours unless specifically authorized.
Must get COTP permission to enter
If you need to enter the safety zone during enforcement hours, you must get authorization from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or a designated representative and comply with their lawful orders. To request permission, contact the COTP or representative on VHF-FM channel 16.
Rule intended to avoid extra costs
The Coast Guard describes this temporary safety zone as protecting people and boats during fireworks without costing anyone extra money. The rule is limited in time (July 8, 2026 through September 6, 2026) and enforced only Wednesdays and Sundays from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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