Temporary Water Closure for Chicago Fireworks Display

The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone around a fireworks barge on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. The zone will be active on June 13, 2026, from 8:45 p.m. to 9:25 p.m. It covers all waters within a 200-foot radius of the barge. During that window, no boat can enter, move through, or leave the area without permission from the Coast Guard official in charge of Lake Michigan waters or an on-scene representative.

Why it matters: This is a routine maritime safety measure. Temporary safety zones are standard procedure for large fireworks displays over water. They keep spectators on boats and shore from drifting into the blast radius and give the Coast Guard clear authority to manage traffic during the show. The effect is limited to a 40-minute window and a narrow stretch of canal.

Who it affects

• Boat operators navigating the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal during the enforcement window

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This action was published by the U.S. Coast Guard and filed in the Federal Register on May 6, 2026. Check the original Federal Register notice for the exact coordinates and full regulatory text before making navigation plans.

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