Victorville's Curfew Laws: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles curfew laws a little differently. In Victorville, California, 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

Victorville bars anyone under 18 from being in a public place or business establishment between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. under Municipal Code Section 13.25.020. Parents or guardians who knowingly let a minor break curfew face the same misdemeanor charge, though the code lists nine specific defenses, from work and school activities to accompanying an adult.

Key details: Curfew hours: 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.. Applies to: Anyone under 18. Max fine: $250 under § 13.25.060. Defenses: 9 listed, incl. work, school, emergencies. Parent liability: Possible on 2nd violation within 12 months.

A curfew violation is a misdemeanor under Section 13.25.060, with minors penalized under the state's juvenile court law and subject to a fine of up to $250. A first-time minor offender typically gets a warning citation that must meet the notice requirements of Welfare and Institutions Code Section 625.5(d); a second or later violation within twelve months can also make the minor's parents or guardian jointly liable for the actual transportation and administrative costs of returning the minor home.

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

Park Curfew

Victorville closes its public parks between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. under Municipal Code Section 14.04.040(c), which bars anyone from remaining or loitering in a park or park building after dark without advance permission from the city council, park superintendent, or recreation and park director. The rule covers every city park, playground, and recreation building.

Key details: Curfew hours: 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.. Governing section: VMC § 14.04.040(c). Who can authorize an exception: City council, park superintendent, or director. Applies to: All city parks, playgrounds, park buildings. Default penalty: Misdemeanor under Cal. Penal Code § 19.

Violating the Section 14.04.040(c) park curfew is enforced like any other Municipal Code offense under Section 1.04.010: unless a title or section says otherwise, a violation is a misdemeanor punishable per California Penal Code Section 19, though the citing officer or city attorney may instead charge it as an infraction. Infraction fines run up to $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second within a year, $400 for a third, and $1,000 for each further violation in that year.

The Bottom Line

Victorville'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 Victorville is broadly strict or permissive.

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