Safety Bubble Around Gulf ANCHOR Oil Platform
Published Date: 8/18/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is establishing a safety zone around the ANCHOR Floating Production Unit (FPU), located in Green Canyon Block 763 on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) in the Gulf of America. Establishing a safety zone around the facility will significantly reduce the threat of allisions, collisions, security breaches, oil spills, releases of natural gas, and thereby protect the safety of life, property, and the environment. This rule prohibits entry of vessels into this safety zone unless specifically authorized Commander, Coast Guard Heartland District or their designated representative.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
500m Safety Zone Around ANCHOR FPU
The Coast Guard establishes a safety zone extending 500 meters (1,640.4 feet) from each point of the ANCHOR Floating Production Unit located at 27°12'23.0394" N, 91°11'53.1594" W (NAD 83) in Green Canyon Block 763, Gulf of America. No vessel may enter or remain in the zone after the rule is effective September 17, 2026, except attending vessels (per 33 CFR 147.20), vessels under 100 feet not towing, or vessels authorized by the Commander, Coast Guard Heartland District.
Small Entities Economic Impact Finding
The Coast Guard certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this safety zone rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agency states vessel traffic may safely transit around the zone and smaller vessels may be permitted entry or obtain permission from the District Commander.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2026-16805, Safety Zone; Ohio Street Beach Swim Course, Lake Michigan, Chicago Harbor, Chicago, IL
On August 21, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m., the Coast Guard will block off a safety zone in Lake Michigan near Ohio Street Beach for the North Avenue Swim & Triathlon Yo (NASTY) Carb Party swim race. Boats can’t enter or stay in this area unless they get special permission. This keeps swimmers safe and helps the event run smoothly without any extra costs for the public.
Next: 2026-16807, Safety Zone; Lake Michigan, Gary, IN
From August 20 to 23, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone on Lake Michigan near Gary, IN, to keep everyone safe during an air show, drone display, and fireworks. Boats and people can’t enter the zone unless the Coast Guard says it’s okay. This quick action helps protect folks and the environment without any delays or extra costs.