COVE POINT, Md. — The U.S. Coast Guard, in collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies, has established a Safety and Security Zone around the Cove Point Liquefied Natural Gas Terminal in Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, to protect public safety and security. Effective immediately, the zone prohibits unauthorized vessels and individuals from entering a 500-yard radius in all directions from the terminal.
The exclusion zone restricts recreational vessels, fishing boats, small craft, and unauthorized ships from areas near docked vessels, piers, and adjacent shorelines at the terminal. Marked signs on piers, buoys, and structures, visible day and night, delineate the zone’s boundaries. Security personnel, stationed on land and water, enforce the zone continuously, ensuring compliance with regulations.
Entry or movement within the zone is prohibited without authorization from the Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COPT) Maryland-National Capital Region or a designated representative. Violators face boarding by the Coast Guard or law enforcement, with penalties including fines up to $32,500 and potential criminal charges. For detailed information on the regulated navigation area, visit the Coast Guard’s navigation regulations page.
The Cove Point LNG Terminal, a critical energy infrastructure site, handles liquefied natural gas shipments, necessitating heightened security to prevent unauthorized access or disruptions. The Safety and Security Zone ensures safe operations by limiting access to the terminal’s immediate vicinity, protecting both the facility and nearby communities. The 500-yard radius provides a buffer to mitigate risks from potential incidents, such as collisions or security breaches, in the busy Chesapeake Bay.
Security personnel monitor the zone using a combination of patrols and surveillance, maintaining vigilance around the clock. The Coast Guard coordinates with state and local agencies to enforce the zone, ensuring a unified approach to public safety. Vessels seeking authorization to enter must contact the COPT Maryland-National Capital Region, which evaluates requests based on safety and security criteria.
The zone’s establishment reflects the Coast Guard’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure in Maryland. The Cove Point terminal, located in a strategic coastal area, supports energy distribution, making its protection a priority. The marked boundaries and strict enforcement aim to deter both unintentional and deliberate encroachments, thereby preserving safe navigation for authorized maritime traffic.
Violations carry significant consequences to underscore the zone’s importance. The $32,500 fine serves as a deterrent, while criminal charges may apply for intentional breaches. The Coast Guard emphasizes compliance to avoid disruptions to terminal operations or public safety. Boaters and residents are urged to familiarize themselves with the zone’s boundaries and regulations to prevent violations.
The Chesapeake Bay, a vital waterway for commerce and recreation, hosts numerous terminals and facilities, each of which requires tailored security measures. The Cove Point Safety and Security Zone aligns with similar measures at other high-risk sites, striking a balance between public access and infrastructure protection. The Coast Guard’s collaboration with local authorities ensures the zone integrates with existing maritime safety protocols.
