Virginia Beach Expands Curfew for Unaccompanied Minors

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The city of Virginia Beach has voted to expand its curfew for unaccompanied minors, moving the start time from 11 p.m. to 10 p.m. The curfew, which still lasts until 5 a.m., has been in city code for over 40 years and is intended to help maintain a safe environment for residents and visitors, especially during the upcoming resort season.

Why it matters

Virginia Beach is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. The earlier curfew is an effort by local authorities to enhance public safety and curb any potential issues with unaccompanied minors during the busy resort season.

The details

Under the updated ordinance, minors under the age of 18 are not allowed to be in any public place, whether public or private property, between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless it is an emergency, they are going directly to and from lawful employment, or they are attending a specified engagement or performance, religious services, or any assembly or expressive activity protected by the First Amendment. Parents or guardians who allow or encourage minors to violate the curfew will be charged with a Class 4 misdemeanor.

• The curfew has been in city code for over 40 years.
• The new 10 p.m. start time will go into effect ahead of the upcoming resort season.

What’s next

The new 10 p.m. curfew start time for unaccompanied minors in Virginia Beach will go into effect ahead of the upcoming resort season.