How Chico Handles Curfew Laws: A Practical Guide

Chico maintains 133 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with curfew laws. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Chico falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Juvenile Curfew

Minors under 18 in Chico may not loiter unaccompanied in public places between 10 or 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., under Chico Municipal Code § 9.56.010, with exceptions for work, errands, or direct travel.

Key details: Curfew hours: 10-11 p.m. to 5 a.m.. Applies to: Unaccompanied minors under 18. Covered places: Streets, parks, commercial property. Penalty: Infraction, juvenile court law.

Unaccompanied loitering or remaining in a public place or commercial property during curfew hours without a qualifying reason; charged as an infraction under state juvenile court law.

Park Curfew

Chico parks, greenways, and open spaces close 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., except City Plaza and Upper Bidwell Park, which close 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Key details: Default closure: 10 p.m.-5 a.m.. City Plaza/Upper Bidwell: 11 p.m.-5 a.m.. Exceptions: Passthrough and staff activities. Director authority: Can order temporary closures.

Being present in a closed park, greenway, or open space without authorization or a permit is a misdemeanor or infraction, enforceable by police citation.

The Bottom Line

Chico'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 Chico is broadly strict or permissive.

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