The United States Army Corps of Engineers has formally proposed significant revisions to the regulations governing a restricted area within Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach (NWSSB) in Anaheim Bay, California. This regulatory action, documented in the Federal Register, responds to a request from the Department of the Navy to update existing rules for this critical West Coast munitions supply installation. The primary objective is to enhance public safety, mitigate navigational and operational hazards, and protect vital government assets and personnel following extensive modifications to Anaheim Bay.
Context for Change: Reconfiguring Anaheim Bay
The impetus for these proposed changes stems from a comprehensive project undertaken by the Department of the Navy to reconfigure Anaheim Bay. This project included the construction of a new ammunition pier and the relocation of a public boating channel. Such substantial infrastructure developments necessitate a corresponding adjustment in maritime safety and security protocols to reflect the new operational landscape. The existing restricted area regulations no longer align with the current site conditions and operational requirements of NWSSB, which is situated in the city of Seal Beach, Orange County, California.
Proposed Restricted Area Divisions and Rules
The proposed rule would amend 33 CFR Part 334 by revising Section 334.930. The revised regulation divides the waters of Anaheim Bay Harbor, located between the east and west jetties of NWSSB and including the contiguous inner basin, into two distinct sub-areas:
The Navy Operational Area
This area comprises the entire inner basin and a substantial portion of the outer harbor, excluding a southeastern section. Within the Navy Operational Area, stringent restrictions would apply. No persons, vessels, watercraft, or other floating devices would be permitted to enter, occupy, transit through, or conduct any activities without explicit authorization from the Navy. This prohibition underscores the sensitive nature of the area and the necessity of safeguarding military operations and assets.
The Public Navigation Channel
A designated public navigation channel is established within the southeastern portion of Anaheim Bay. This channel starts at the mouth of the outer harbor and extends northeast, running adjacent to the East Jetty, as far north as the Anaheim Bay Bridge. Civilian craft would generally be authorized to transit through Anaheim Bay only within the limits of this marked public navigation channel.
However, specific regulations are proposed for the public navigation channel to ensure safety and security:
- The Commanding Officer of Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach retains authority to restrict or disallow navigation during periods where national security or safety warrant such actions. All persons and vessels must promptly vacate the area if ordered by the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, or local law enforcement.
- Activities such as sailing, using hand-powered watercraft, recreational swimming, or any other activities involving persons in the water are prohibited within this channel.
- Anchoring or stopping within the designated public navigation channel is forbidden without prior approval from the Commanding Officer.
- Boats unable to maintain steerage at 5 miles per hour must proceed at the minimum speed consistent with safe navigation.
- Smoking, open flames, and barbecues on boats are prohibited during transit through this area.
- Operators must heed all posted signs and instructions from NWSSB security personnel.
These rules are designed to prevent potential conflicts between civilian and military operations, particularly given the movement of munitions.
Procedural and Environmental Review
The Army Corps of Engineers has evaluated this proposed rule under several procedural requirements:
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Executive Orders 12866 and 13563: The proposal has not been designated a "significant regulatory action" because it pertains to a military function of the Department of Defense, rendering these executive orders inapplicable.
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Regulatory Flexibility Act: The Corps certifies that the proposed rule is not expected to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, contingent on no contrary information emerging during the public comment period.
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National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA): Due to the administrative nature of the action and the absence of an intended change in the use of the area, the Corps anticipates no significant environmental impact. An environmental assessment will be prepared after the public comment period closes.
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Unfunded Mandates Reform Act: The rule does not impose enforceable duties on the private sector or state, local, and tribal governments, thus it is not subject to the requirements of this Act.
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Congressional Review Act: The proposed rule is not classified as a "major rule."
These assessments indicate that the proposed changes are viewed primarily as administrative adjustments necessary to maintain safety and security at a military installation, with limited broader impacts.
Public Comment Period
The public is invited to submit written comments on this proposed rule. Comments must be received on or before September 10, 2026. Submissions can be made via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at regulations.gov, by email, or by mail. The Corps emphasizes that all comments received, including any personal information provided, will be included in the public docket unless explicitly marked as Confidential Business Information. Contact information for clarification is provided for Ms. Linda Speerstra at Corps headquarters and Gerardo Salas in the Los Angeles District Regulatory Branch.
