Chicago River Goes Dark for NYE Fireworks Boat Ban
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Rule
Summary
On New Year's Eve, from 11:30 p.m. to 12:15 a.m., the Coast Guard will block off part of the Chicago River for a fireworks show to keep everyone safe. Boat owners and anyone on the water must get special permission to enter or stay in this area during that time. This temporary safety zone helps protect people, boats, and the environment without any extra fees.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Chicago River closed for NYE fireworks
On December 31, 2025 from 11:30 p.m. through January 1, 2026 at 12:15 a.m., the Coast Guard will prohibit entry, transiting, or anchoring on the Chicago River (Main Branch) for a fireworks display. If you are on or plan to use the river during that time, you cannot enter the safety zone unless you have permission from the Captain of the Port Lake Michigan or a designated representative.
Permission and obedience required for vessels
During the enforcement period, vessels must obtain permission from the Captain of the Port Lake Michigan or an on-scene representative to enter, transit, moor, lay up, or anchor in the safety zone. Vessels and people granted permission must obey all lawful orders and follow directions when hailed by siren, radio, or flashing light.
No extra fees for the safety zone
The safety zone for the fireworks display is enforced to protect people, vessels, and the environment, and the notice states this is done without any extra fees. You will not be charged additional fees for the temporary safety zone during the enforcement period.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
2025-17095 — Great Lakes Pilotage Rates-2026 Annual Review and Revisions to Methodology
The Coast Guard is planning to lower Great Lakes pilotage rates by about 7% for the 2026 shipping season, making it cheaper for ships to get expert help navigating these waters. They’re also tweaking how they calculate these rates by removing one step to keep things fair and simple. This affects shipping companies and anyone relying on Great Lakes trade, with changes kicking in next year and open for public feedback now.
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!
2026-03183 — 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 / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-23259 — Air Plan Approval: Arizona: Infrastructure Requirements for the 2012 Fine Particulate Matter National Ambient Air Quality Standard
The EPA is giving a thumbs-up to Arizona’s plan to keep the air clean by following the 2012 fine particle pollution rules. This means Arizona will update its air quality rules, including adding La Paz County to a special air region, starting January 20, 2026. People and businesses in Arizona should get ready for these changes, which help protect health without adding big costs right now.
Next: 2025-23275 — New Source Performance Standards; Delegation of Authority to Oklahoma
The EPA is officially giving Oklahoma the power to enforce updated air pollution rules for new factories and sources, based on standards set through June 30, 2023. This change starts January 20, 2026, and affects businesses and areas, including some Indian lands, that must follow these cleaner air rules. It means Oklahoma will handle inspections and enforcement, helping keep the air cleaner without extra federal delays or costs.
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in