Coast Guard seals rivers for Pittsburgh's giant paddle battle frenzy
Published Date: 9/3/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary special local regulation (SLR) on the waters of the Allegheny River from mile marker 0 to mile marker 3.5 and the Ohio River from mile marker 0 to mile marker 3 in Pittsburgh, PA. This action is necessary to provide for the safety of life on these navigable waters from potential hazards during the Pitt Paddle planned on September 6, 2026. This proposed rulemaking would prohibit persons and vessels from being in the six-and-a-half- mile regulated area unless authorized by the Captain of the Port Pittsburgh or a designated representative.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
No-entry zone for non-participants
From 7 a.m. until noon on September 6, 2026, all persons and vessels who are NOT registered participants are prohibited from entering, transiting through, anchoring in, or remaining in the regulated area covering Allegheny River mile markers 0 to 3.5 and Ohio River mile markers 0 to 3 (a six-and-a-half-mile zone). You may only be in that area if the Captain of the Port Pittsburgh or a designated representative authorizes you.
Registered participants may remain
People and vessels that are registered with the event sponsor as participants in the Pitt Paddle race are allowed to be in the regulated area during the enforcement period (7 a.m. to noon on September 6, 2026). Participants must comply with lawful orders from the Captain of the Port Pittsburgh or designated representatives.
How to get permission to enter
If you need permission to enter the regulated area on September 6, 2026 (7 a.m. to noon), contact the Captain of the Port Pittsburgh or their representative on VHF-FM channel 16 or by telephone at (412) 670-4288. Anyone granted permission must follow all lawful orders or directions from the Captain of the Port or their designated representative.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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