Virginia Beach Curfew for Minors: New 10 PM Start Time

Virginia Beach is adjusting its curfew for unaccompanied minors, moving the start time from 11 p.m. To 10 p.m., a change approved unanimously by the City Council on Tuesday night. The curfew remains in effect until 5 a.m.

The decision, which comes ahead of the upcoming resort season, was requested by the Virginia Beach Police Department as a proactive measure to enhance safety for both residents and visitors. The curfew has been part of the city’s code for over 40 years, according to information presented to the City Council.

Under the ordinance, individuals under the age of 18 are prohibited from being in any public place – whether privately or publicly owned – between the hours of 10 p.m. And 5 a.m. Exceptions are made for emergencies, direct travel to or from lawful employment, attendance at “a specified engagement or performance,” religious services, or any “assembly or expressive activity” protected under the First Amendment. Interstate travel through Virginia Beach, or travel that both begins and ends within the city, is also permitted.

The revised curfew will take effect in 30 days. City officials emphasized the importance of parental responsibility, stating that parents or guardians who allow or encourage a minor to violate the curfew will be charged with a Class 4 misdemeanor. This underscores the city’s commitment to a collaborative approach to ensuring the safety of its youth.

The move to tighten the curfew reflects a broader effort by the city to maintain a secure environment during peak tourist seasons. The Police Department believes the earlier curfew will provide an additional layer of protection and allow for more effective monitoring of public spaces during evening hours. The long-standing nature of the curfew code suggests a consistent approach to youth safety in Virginia Beach, now being updated to address current needs and concerns.

While the ordinance outlines specific exceptions, the overall intent is to limit opportunities for unsupervised activity among minors during late-night hours. The city’s legal framework recognizes the importance of fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression and religious practice, and incorporates provisions to protect those rights even during curfew hours. The inclusion of interstate travel as an exception acknowledges the city’s role as a transportation corridor and avoids unnecessarily restricting legitimate travel.

The potential for misdemeanor charges against parents or guardians highlights the city’s expectation of active parental involvement in enforcing the curfew. This aspect of the ordinance aims to reinforce the responsibility of adults in ensuring the safety and well-being of their children. The Class 4 misdemeanor designation suggests a relatively minor offense, but serves as a deterrent and a means of accountability.

The 30-day implementation period allows time for public awareness campaigns and ensures that residents and visitors are informed about the changes to the curfew regulations. This period will also allow the Police Department to prepare for the enforcement of the new rules and to address any questions or concerns from the community. The city anticipates that the revised curfew will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone in Virginia Beach, particularly during the busy resort season.