Coast Guard Slashes Great Lakes Pilot Fees: Ships Sail Cheaper in 2026

2026-05216 — Safety Zone; San Pedro Channel and San Pedro Bay, CA

Starting March 17 through April 30, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in San Pedro Channel and San Pedro Bay, CA, to keep people and boats safe while damaged cargo is removed from the vessel OOCL SUNFLOWER. No one can enter this zone without special permission, protecting everyone from possible dangers and environmental harm. This rule kicks in quickly and affects anyone navigating these waters during this time.

2026-03044 — Sabine Pass Safety Fairway Anchorages

The Coast Guard wants to add two new deep-water anchor spots near Sabine Pass, Texas, mainly for big oil tankers with deep drafts. This change will make shipping safer and smoother, helping energy move faster and boosting the economy. If you have thoughts, send them in by May 18, 2026—no cost to you, just your voice!

2026-03226 — Streamlined (Vessel) Inspection Program (NVIC 02-99)-Request for Information

The Coast Guard wants your ideas to make its Streamlined Inspection Program (SIP) better and faster for U.S. ships. This update aims to boost national security, help the maritime workforce, and keep American vessels competitive without extra hassle. If you’re involved with U.S.-flagged or built ships, speak up by March 20, 2026, to help shape the future—and maybe save time and money!

2026-03138 — Safety Zone; San Juan Harbor, San Juan, PR

The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone around the grounded Barge DEFIANT near San Juan Harbor to keep people, boats, and the environment safe. From February 18 to 23, 2026, no one can enter this 200-yard zone without special permission. This quick action helps prevent accidents and protects the area without causing any fees or long delays.

2026-03183 — Safety Zone; Fireworks Displays Within the USCG East District (Formerly Fifth Coast Guard District); The Wharf, Washington, DC

On February 22, 2026, from 6:30 to 6:40 p.m., the Coast Guard will block off part of the Washington Channel near The Wharf, DC, to keep everyone safe during a fireworks show. Boats can’t enter or pass through this area unless they get special permission. This short safety zone helps make sure the fireworks event goes off without a hitch and keeps water traffic safe.

2026-03209 — Proposal To Relocate the COLREGS Demarcation Line, Atlantic Coast, New York Harbor

The Coast Guard wants to move the COLREGS line in New York Harbor to improve boat safety and navigation. They’re asking boaters, companies, and the public to share their thoughts by May 19, 2026. This change could affect how ships travel but won’t cost anyone money directly—just your input!

Previous: 2025-17094 — Safety Zone; Patapsco River, Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Coast Guard wants to set up two temporary safety zones around the Francis Scott Key Bridge on the Patapsco River to keep everyone safe during demolition and construction work. Boats and people won’t be allowed in these zones unless they get special permission. This rule helps protect lives without costing anyone extra money and is open for public comments.

Next: 2025-17115 — Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

The FAA wants all Airbus H160-B helicopter owners to update their maintenance manuals with new safety rules to keep flying safe. These changes mean stricter checks and fixes to prevent problems before they happen. Owners should get ready to follow these new rules soon, which might cost some time and money but keep everyone safer in the sky!