Chicago River Safety Zone for the Annual Ducky Derby

You might care about this because the U.S. Coast Guard is putting a temporary safety zone on a part of the Chicago River. This zone will be active on August 6, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It covers the main branch of the Chicago River, specifically between the Michigan Avenue Bridge and the Columbus Drive Bridge. The purpose of this safety zone is to keep everyone safe during the Annual Chicago Ducky Derby marine event. During these hours, no boats are allowed to enter, pass through, moor, or anchor in this specific area without special permission. If you need to enter or move within the zone, you must get approval from the Captain of the Port Lake Michigan or their authorized representative who will be on site. The Coast Guard is taking this action to make sure that the event can happen without any accidents involving vessels or people on the water. Boaters should be aware of these restrictions and plan their activities accordingly for that day. What makes this particular notification interesting is how a busy waterway like the Chicago River is temporarily adapted for a special public event. It shows a practical example of how marine regulations are applied to ensure safety during unique circumstances. This temporary safety zone is put in place to prevent any potential conflicts or hazards between marine traffic and the participants or spectators of the Ducky Derby. It highlights the Coast Guard's ongoing commitment to managing waterways safely, even for recreational and community events. This type of action is a standard procedure for protecting both the public and marine vessels during large-scale events that use navigable waters. This information will be most relevant to several groups. Boaters who regularly use the Chicago River, especially during the summer months, should pay close attention to these dates and times. Operators of commercial vessels, such as tour boats or water taxis, will also need to adjust their schedules and routes for August 6, 2026. People attending or participating in the Chicago Ducky Derby might find this interesting to understand the safety measures in place for the event. Additionally, individuals interested in maritime law, public safety regulations, or how special events are managed on waterways would find this document informative.