Juvenile Curfew: Mountain View vs Palo Alto
How do juvenile curfew rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Palo Alto, CA?
Mountain View and Palo Alto have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View's curfew ordinance generally prohibits minors under 18 from being in public between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. without a parent or qualifying exception. Daytime school-hours curfew also applies.
View full Mountain View rules →Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Palo Alto enforces a juvenile curfew under Chapter 9.04 restricting minors under 18 from public places between 11:30 PM and 5:00 AM unless accompanied by a parent, working, or traveling for a lawful purpose.
View full Palo Alto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Palo Alto |
|---|---|---|
| Nighttime hours | 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. | - |
| Daytime hours | During school hours on school days | - |
| Age | Under 18 | Under 18 years |
| Key exceptions | Parent, work, school event, emergency | - |
| Max fine | Up to 250 dollars | - |
| Ordinance | - | Chapter 9.04 PAMC |
| Curfew hours | - | 11:30 PM to 5:00 AM |
| Exceptions | - | Parent, work, school, emergency |
| Police | - | (650) 329-2413 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can a 17-year-old drive home from work after 11 p.m.?
Yes. Travel directly to or from lawful employment is an exception to the Mountain View curfew ordinance.
What happens on a first curfew violation?
A first offense is usually handled with a warning and parental notification. Repeat offenses can lead to citations, fines, and diversion programs.
Palo Alto FAQ
What are Palo Altos curfew hours?
Generally 11:30 PM to 5:00 AM for youth under age 18 in public spaces such as streets, parks, and sidewalks.
Are there exceptions?
Yes. Minors with a parent, traveling to or from work or school, responding to an emergency, or engaged in interstate travel are exempt.
What happens if a minor is caught out after curfew?
Officers typically notify parents and may issue an infraction citation; parents who allow repeat violations may also be cited.
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