Coast Guard closes part of Sandusky Bay for fireworks display

The U.S. Coast Guard is establishing a temporary safety zone in Sandusky Bay, Ohio, on July 3, 2026. The restricted area covers all navigable waters within a 200-yard radius of a barge located at coordinates 41 degrees 26 minutes 45 seconds north and 82 degrees 40 minutes 50 seconds west. This location is near 870 Crosstree Lane in Sandusky.

Why it matters: This is a routine maritime safety measure rather than a new policy change. It restricts boat traffic in a small section of the bay for two hours on a single evening. While it does not affect land-based activities, it prevents recreational boaters and commercial vessels from entering the immediate vicinity of the fireworks launch site during the event window.

Who it affects

• Recreational boaters planning to be in Sandusky Bay on the evening of July 3, 2026.

---

This rule was issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port Detroit, as published in the Federal Register on July 1, 2026; readers should verify the exact coordinates and enforcement times with local authorities before heading out on the water.

Agency: Homeland Security Department, Coast Guard
Source: Federal Register — read the official document