Chula Vista, CA Curfew Laws: Juvenile Curfew (2026)

the following day. A parent or guardian who knowingly permits, or by insufficient control allows, the minor to be present during curfew hours is separately liable. "Public place" is defined broadly to include streets, highways and the common areas of schools, hospitals, apartment houses, office buildings, transport facilities and shops. The section lists nine defenses to prosecution: the minor was accompanied by a parent, guardian or a responsible adult (18 or older, authorized by a parent); on a direct errand for a parent/guardian without detour; in a vehicle on interstate travel; going to, from or engaged in employment without detour; involved in an emergency (including a fire, disaster or accident); on the sidewalk abutting the minor's own residence; attending a City-, civic- or similarly sponsored school, religious or recreational activity, or travel to/from it without detour; exercising First Amendment rights; or emancipated by law.

Before enforcing, a police officer must ask the apparent offender's age and reason for being present, and may not cite or arrest unless the officer reasonably believes an offense occurred and no listed defense applies. unless accompanied by a parent, guardian or other adult acting in that capacity. Violation of the curfew provision is a misdemeanor for adults; minors are handled through juvenile court law and procedures, and each violation is a separate offense.