2026-22468·DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Special Local Regulation; Atlantic Ocean, Key West, FL

Final RuleEffective

Published: Nov 4, 2026
Effective: Nov 4, 2026
Citation: 91 FR 69501
Docket: Docket Number USCG-2026-1264
Agencies: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, Coast Guard

Temporary final rule.

Summary

The Coast Guard has issued a temporary special local regulation (SLR) that creates a restricted zone in the Atlantic waters around the Key West Main Shipping Channel and the area between Sunset Key and Wisteria Island. The restriction, which bars vessels and persons from entering the zone unless they receive specific permission from the Captain of the Port Key West or an authorized representative, is intended to protect life and property during the Race World Offshore World Championship, a major sailing competition taking place from November 4 to November 8, 2026. The rule was adopted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Coast Guard and takes effect immediately on its publication date, November 4, 2026. Because it is a temporary final rule, there is no public comment period; the regulation is already in force for the duration of the event. After the championship ends on November 8, the restriction will be lifted, and normal navigation rules will resume in the affected waters.

AI-generated summary — verify against the Federal Register text.

Official abstract

The Coast Guard is establishing a temporary special local regulation (SLR) for the navigable waters of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding the Key West Main Shipping Channel and the waters between Sunset Key and Wisteria Island. This action is necessary to provide for the safety of life on these navigable waters near Key West, FL during the Race World Offshore World Championship 2026 event beginning on November 4, 2026, and ending on November 8, 2026. This regulation prohibits persons and vessels from entering the regulated area unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port Key West or their designated representative.