Tacoma's Curfew Laws: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles curfew laws a little differently. In Tacoma, Washington, 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

Minors under 18 in Tacoma cannot be in any public place or business establishment between 12:01 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Parents who knowingly permit it, and operators who facilitate it, are separately liable.

Key details: Curfew hours: 12:01 a.m.–6:00 a.m.. Applies to: anyone under 18. Max penalty: $250 civil infraction. Common defense: accompanied by parent/guardian.

A minor stopped in public during curfew hours faces a civil infraction of up to $250; a parent who knowingly allowed it, or an operator who facilitated it, can also be cited.

This is one of the stricter rules in Tacoma's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Park Curfew

Tacoma parks close a half hour after sunset and open a half hour before sunrise; being there when closed is criminal trespass, not just a fine.

Key details: Opens: 30 min before sunrise. Closes: 30 min after sunset. After hours: criminal trespass. Hours can vary: by Director posting.

Being in a closed park is prosecuted as criminal trespass under TMC § 8.27.220(A), a criminal offense, not merely a civil infraction, and vehicles or belongings left behind may be impounded or removed.

Compared to other cities, Tacoma takes a harder line on park curfew. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Tacoma is tougher than many cities when it comes to curfew laws. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Tacoma, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Tacoma can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.