Safety zone established for Kanawha River fireworks in Charleston, WV

The Coast Guard is creating a temporary safety zone on the Kanawha River in Charleston, West Virginia, to protect people and vessels during a July 4th fireworks display. Because this year’s event includes an America 250th anniversary celebration, the restricted area is larger than usual.

Why it matters: This action ensures that boaters and spectators are kept at a safe distance from the fireworks launch site, which is situated on a barge near the Capitol Building. It also provides legal authority for Coast Guard personnel to enforce the exclusion zone and manage traffic in the area during the event.

Who it affects

• Boaters and recreational vessel operators navigating the Kanawha River between mile markers 57.5 and 60.5 on July 4, 2026.

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This rule was issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the Port, Ohio Valley; readers should verify current enforcement details by contacting the COTP at (304) 563-9084 or on VHF-FM channel 16 before navigating the area.

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