Coast Guard enforces speed limits on Lake Washington for Seafair
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The U.S. Coast Guard is enforcing a regulated navigation area around Seattle’s Lake Washington from July 30 through August 2, 2026. This covers the dates of the annual Seafair event. During this time, the rules apply daily between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., including periods immediately before and after specific events throughout the day.
Why it matters: This is a routine safety measure for a large public event. The primary goal is to prevent dangerous wakes from colliding vessels or capsizing smaller boats during crowded conditions. It does not close the lake to traffic, but it does slow things down significantly in specific areas.
Who it affects
- Boaters and recreational vessel operators on Lake Washington during the specified dates and times
This notice comes from the U.S. Coast Guard, specifically Captain Mark A. McDonnell of Sector Puget Sound, and was filed in the Federal Register on July 1, 2026.
Agency: Homeland Security Department, Coast Guard
Source: Federal Register — read the official document