July 2 - 5 | Boaters: What to Know About D.C.'s 4th of July Waterway Restrictions
Boaters planning to be on the water during the Independence Day holiday should be aware of temporary restrictions that will affect portions of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers from Thursday, July 2, through Sunday, July 5, 2026, as public safety officials prepare for Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks.
Recreational Vessel Restrictions
Beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, through 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 5, recreational vessels will not be permitted in the section of the Potomac River between the 14th Street Bridge and the Key Bridge. Boating and anchoring will be prohibited in this area.
A designated recreational viewing area will be available south of the 14th Street Bridge Complex. Traffic from Columbia Island Marina will be permitted to exit south through the restricted area, except during the fireworks display.
Commercial Vessel Restrictions
From 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, until 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 5, commercial vessels will also be prohibited from traveling between the 14th Street Bridge and the Key Bridge unless they have been preauthorized and designated to enter the restricted zone.
Temporary Closure to All Vessels
On Saturday, July 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., all vessel traffic will be prohibited between the 14th Street Bridgeand the Key Bridge.
Anacostia River Safety Zone
A safety zone will be enforced on the Anacostia River from 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, until 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 5, between the Frederick Douglass Bridge and the 11th Street Bridge. During the fireworks display, no vessels will be permitted to transit this section of the river.
No Wake Zone
A "No Wake" zone will be in effect on the Potomac River between the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and the 14th Street Bridge from 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, through 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 5.
Officials remind boaters to never operate a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol and to follow all posted restrictions throughout the holiday weekend.
Boaters with questions may contact the Metropolitan Police Department Harbor Patrol Unit at 202-727-4582.
Anyone who observes suspicious activity is encouraged to call 911 in an emergency or 202-727-9099, text 50411, or visit the MPD's Capital Watch website for non-emergency reporting.