July 4 fireworks shut down parts of New York Harbor

The Coast Guard is putting a temporary special local regulation, or SLR, over parts of the East River and Upper New York Bay in New York Harbor. The rule controls vessel movement, creates spectator zones and sets an exclusion zone near the launch sites so fireworks barges and nearby boat traffic do not mix.

It takes effect from 4 p.m. on July 4, 2026, through 11:30 p.m. on July 5, with enforcement from 4 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on July 4 unless the display is postponed to July 5.

What stays clear of the barges

Boats are barred from the moving protection zones around transiting fireworks barges unless the Captain of the Port, Sector New York, or a designated representative specifically authorizes entry. For anyone planning to be on the water near Manhattan, Queens or Brooklyn, the message is simple: the harbor will be busy, but not open season.