USCGFinal Rule

Security Zone; Lower Mississippi River, Mile Marker 94 to 97 Above Head of Passes, New Orleans, LA

TransportationOther

Summary

The U.S. Coast Guard has established a restricted security zone in a specific 3-mile stretch of the Mississippi River near New Orleans to control vessel traffic and protect critical infrastructure or activities in that area. Boats and ships operating in or near this zone will need to follow special rules set by the Coast Guard.

Key Points

  • 1A security zone has been created in the Lower Mississippi River between mile markers 94 and 97, near New Orleans
  • 2Vessels entering this zone must comply with Coast Guard restrictions and may be subject to inspections or identification checks
  • 3The restriction is intended to protect people, property, or important facilities in that river section
  • 4Ship captains and boat operators in this area should expect delays and should monitor Coast Guard communications for entry requirements
  • 5Unauthorized entry into the zone could result in fines or other enforcement actions by federal authorities

Impact Assessment

If you are a transportation company or vessel operator, this means you must follow special Coast Guard protocols and obtain authorization before transiting this 3-mile stretch of the Mississippi River near New Orleans, which may cause minor routing delays.

Impact Level
Moderate
Geographic Scope

State-specific

Compliance Cost

Minimal

Who is Affected
Transportation CompaniesImporters/ExportersEnergy Companies

Key Dates

Published

February 6, 2026

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
33 CFR Part 133 CFR Part 6
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (USCG-2026-0034)

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.