Dayton, OH Curfew Laws: Juvenile Curfew (2026)
Key Facts
- Curfew hours
- 11:00 p.m.–5:00 a.m.
- Applies to
- Persons under 18
- Penalty
- Minor misdemeanor
- Citation
- R.C.G.O. § 137.10
Summary
Dayton bars anyone under 18 from public places between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., with parental and employment defenses.
No person under the age of 18 years shall be in any public place of the city as defined in subsection (E) of this section between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. of the following day, local time. Evidence that such a person was in a public place of the city between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. constitutes prima facie evidence of a violation of this section...(F)Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35).
Full Breakdown
Section 137.10 makes it unlawful for a person under 18 to be in any public place of the city between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., with prima facie evidence from mere presence during those hours. Affirmative defenses cover being accompanied by a parent or guardian, or traveling directly to or from lawful work or activity with parental consent. Parents and business operators who allow a minor to remain in violation are separately liable. A violation is a minor misdemeanor.
Violations & Fines
Minor found in a public place (street, park, business) between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. without a qualifying defense; minor misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dayton
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