No Boats Allowed: Fort Myers Beach Speed Race Safety Bubble
Published Date: 9/1/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone for navigable waters on Fort Myers Beach. The safety zone is needed to protect personnel, vessels, and the marine environment from potential hazards associated with high-speed boat racing. Entry of vessels or persons into this zone is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port, Sector St. Petersburg, or their designated representative.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Safety Zone — Fort Myers Beach
If you plan to be on the water at Fort Myers Beach, you may NOT enter the marked safety zone from September 11 through September 13, 2026, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. unless the Captain of the Port (COTP) or their designated representative authorizes you. The zone covers all waters within the polygon connecting these points: 26°26'27" N, 081°55'55" W; 26°25'33" N, 081°56'34" W; 26°26'38" N, 081°58'40" W; 26°27'25" N, 081°58'08" W. To seek permission, contact the COTP or their representative on VHF-FM channel 16 or by telephone at (866) 881-1392.
Small Businesses: Contact Ombudsman if Affected
The Coast Guard notes this safety zone could affect small businesses and says: if this rule will affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction, contact the person listed in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT or the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman at 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). The rule also states the Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis does not apply because notice and comment were waived.
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