USCGFinal Rule

2024 Quarterly Listings: First Quarter; Safety Zones, Security Zones, and Special Local Regulations

TransportationEnvironment

Summary

The U.S. Coast Guard has announced new or updated rules for the first quarter of 2024 that designate certain water areas as safety zones, security zones, or establish special local regulations. These rules help protect people and vessels in specific waterways by controlling boat traffic, establishing restricted areas around sensitive locations, and setting rules for how people can use certain water bodies.

Key Points

  • 1The Coast Guard created designated safety and security zones in various waterways to protect people, property, and critical infrastructure from accidents or threats
  • 2Boaters and vessel operators must follow new restrictions in these zones, which may include reduced speeds, no-wake zones, or keeping out of certain areas entirely
  • 3Special local regulations may affect recreational activities like fishing, swimming, or water sports in specific locations during certain times
  • 4Violations of these zone restrictions can result in fines or other penalties for boat operators and owners
  • 5The regulations apply to both commercial and recreational water users in the affected waterways across the country

Impact Assessment

If you are a boat operator or transportation company, this means you must follow new traffic restrictions and avoid designated safety and security zones in certain waterways during Q1 2024.

Impact Level
Routine
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Minimal

Who is Affected
Transportation CompaniesConsumersState Governments

Key Dates

Published

January 7, 2026

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
33 CFR Part 1

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.