Final rule · 2026-17354

Establishment of Four Customs-Enforcement Areas

This document sets forth the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) declaration establishing four Customs- Enforcement Areas (CEA) in the near shore waters of South Florida, Central/Southern California, Puerto Rico, and the Gulf Coast of Texas. This action will further CBP efforts to interdict hovering vessels utilized for smuggling illegal cargoes into or out of the United States specifically within the CEAs. Additionally, this action authorizes customs officers and agents to enforce applicable U.S. laws, including the authorization to board vessels, examine vessels, merchandise and persons on board, bring the same into port, and pursue, seize, and arrest individuals, within the CEAs.