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Curfew Laws

Jacksonville's Curfew Laws: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles curfew laws a little differently. In Jacksonville, Florida, 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

Jacksonville prohibits minors under 18 from public places between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM Sunday-Thursday and between 12:00 AM and 6:00 AM Friday-Saturday. Exceptions include parental accompaniment, work travel, supervised school or religious events, and emergencies. Repeat violations escalate to parental fines and mandatory parenting classes.

Key details: Age Requirement: Age cutoff: under 18. Sun-thu Nights: 11:00: Sun-Thu nights: 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Fri/sat Nights: 12:00: Fri/Sat nights: 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM. Exceptions: Parent Escort,: Exceptions: parent escort, work, school event. Penalties: Parents fined for repeat violations.

A first violation is a civil citation. Subsequent violations within 12 months are misdemeanors carrying fines up to $500 and possible parenting classes. Parents who knowingly permit a violation are subject to citation. Minors may be referred to diversion programs.

Park Curfew

Jacksonville parks close at sunset and reopen at sunrise; being in a closed park after hours is a criminal offense.

Key details: Standard hours: Sunrise to sunset daily. Governing section: Ordinance Code Sec. 28.705(a). Offense class: Class C offense (Sec. 28.703(b)). Director's discretion: Can extend, limit, or post different hours. Also covers: Beaches, docks, and marinas.

Class C offense for remaining in a closed park; administrative fines up to $100 per violation for other posted rule breaches.

The Bottom Line

Jacksonville'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 Jacksonville is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Jacksonville's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.