USCGFinal Rule

Safety Zone; Francis Scott Key Bridge, Patapsco River, Baltimore, MD

TransportationEnvironment

Summary

The U.S. Coast Guard has established a safety zone around the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore to protect people and vessels in the area, likely following the bridge's collapse in March 2024. This regulation restricts boat traffic and activities in the affected waters to prevent accidents and allow for recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Key Points

  • 1A safety zone has been created around the Francis Scott Key Bridge and Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland
  • 2Boats and vessels are restricted from entering this zone without special permission from the Coast Guard
  • 3The regulation aims to protect public safety and prevent interference with recovery, reconstruction, and investigation activities
  • 4Violating these restrictions can result in fines and penalties
  • 5Mariners and boat operators in the Baltimore area need to be aware of and follow these new restrictions when navigating local waterways

Impact Assessment

If you are a transportation company or vessel operator, this means you cannot operate boats in the restricted safety zone around the Francis Scott Key Bridge, requiring route changes and potential delays to Baltimore harbor access.

Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope

State-specific

Compliance Cost

Moderate

Who is Affected
Transportation CompaniesImporters/ExportersSmall BusinessesWorkers/Laborers

Key Dates

Published

July 30, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
33 CFR Part 133 CFR Part 165

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.