Coast Guard Seals Portland Waters for Weekend Boat Bash
Published Date: 9/11/2026
Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard will enforce special local regulations at one location in the Sector Columbia River Captain of the Port Zone in Portland, OR from September 12, 2026, to September 13, 2026. This action is necessary to provide for the safety of life and property on these navigable waters during marine events. During the enforcement periods, the operator of any vessel in the regulated area must comply with the directions from the Patrol Commander or any official patrol vessel.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Vessel Traffic Restriction
If you operate a vessel on the Willamette River near Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the Coast Guard will enforce a regulated area for the Portland Dragon Boat Races from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on September 12, 2026 and September 13, 2026. The regulated area covers the western side of the Willamette River with coordinates beginning at 45-30'49'' N/122-40'24'' W and looping back to that point.
Transit Requires Patrol Approval
During enforcement you may not transit the regulated area without approval from the Patrol Commander; permitted vessels must follow directions from the Patrol Commander or official patrol vessels. Vessels allowed to transit must operate at no wake speed and avoid endangering event participants or other crafts.
Spectator and Mooring Restrictions
If you are a spectator or other vessel near the event, you may not anchor, block, loiter, or impede event participants or official patrol vessels in the regulated areas during the enforcement times (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sept. 12–13, 2026) unless authorized by an official patrol vessel. Violations can prevent you from remaining in or using areas near the race.
Advance Notice via Mariners Broadcasts
The Coast Guard will notify mariners of these enforcement periods via the Local Notice to Mariners and marine information broadcasts in addition to this Federal Register notice. You can use those notices to learn about last-minute changes or modifications to the September 12–13, 2026 enforcement times and area.
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Key Dates
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