How Yakima Handles Curfew Laws: A Practical Guide

Yakima maintains 119 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 Yakima falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Park Curfew

Yakima closes every city park from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. under YMC Chapter 13.20. Entering or remaining in a park during those hours is unlawful unless you hold a park use or right-of-way permit, or you're there for an official parks and recreation department activity.

Key details: Curfew hours: 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.. Governing chapter: YMC Chapter 13.20, enacted 1974. Max fine: $1,000 (misdemeanor). Max jail term: 90 days. Conviction precondition: posted warning sign + prior police warning.

A violation of YMC Chapter 13.20 is a misdemeanor under § 13.20.040, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to 90 days. Because § 13.20.030(B) and (C) make posted warning signs and a prior police warning conditions precedent to conviction, Yakima police typically warn and post before citing rather than arrest on a first encounter.

Juvenile Curfew

Yakima bans minors under 18 from public places between 11:30 p.m. and 5 a.m. on weeknights, and 12:01 a.m. to 5 a.m. on weekends, with exceptions for work, school events, and parental accompaniment.

Key details: Curfew, Sun–Thu: 11:30 p.m. to 5 a.m.. Curfew, Fri/Sat night: 12:01 a.m. to 5 a.m.. Applies to: Anyone under 18. First-offense fine: $50 civil infraction. Parental penalty: $100–$500 for knowingly allowing.

A first violation is a $50 civil infraction; a second within a year costs $100; a third or subsequent costs $200. Parents who knowingly allow the violation face separate fines of $100 to $500.

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

The Bottom Line

Yakima'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 Yakima is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Yakima's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.