Buffalo's Curfew Laws: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles curfew laws a little differently. In Buffalo, New York, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Juvenile Curfew

Buffalo Code Chapter 215 establishes a juvenile curfew for minors under 17, generally prohibiting presence in public places from 11 PM to 6 AM on weekdays and midnight to 6 AM on weekends.

Key details: Code: Chapter 215. Age: Under 17. Weekday: 11 PM-6 AM. Weekend: Midnight-6 AM. Parent Liability: Yes for knowing violation.

Minor: detention and release to parent. Parent/guardian: fine for knowingly permitting violation.

Park Curfew

Buffalo parks operated by the Department of Parks and Recreation are generally closed from 10 PM to dawn, with entry during closed hours prohibited without a permit.

Key details: Closure: 10 PM to dawn. Code: Chapter 329. System: Olmsted Parks. Enforcement: BPD and Parks. Permit: Exception for special events.

Presence during closed hours: citation, order to leave, possible trespass charge.

The Bottom Line

Buffalo's curfew laws rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Buffalo is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Buffalo's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.