BALTIMORE, MD – The U.S. Coast Guard, in cooperation with federal, state, and local agencies, has announced the establishment of a ‘Safety and Security Zone’ around the Cove Point Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal in the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland. This measure is intended to enhance public safety and security by restricting access to the area.
Effective immediately, the exclusion zone extends 500 yards in all directions from the terminal at Cove Point. It prohibits the entry of recreational vessels, fishing vessels, and other small craft as well as unauthorized vessels around docked ships, extending piers, and nearby shorelines. The zone is clearly marked with signs on surrounding piers, buoys, and other structures, which are visible both day and night.
Security personnel will enforce the safety and security zones on both land and water. Entry into or movement within this zone without authorization from the Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COPT) Maryland-National Capital Region or a designated representative is strictly prohibited.
Violators of these regulations risk being boarded by the U.S. Coast Guard or law enforcement and may face penalties including a fine of $32,500 and potential criminal charges.