Federal Way, WA Curfew Laws: Juvenile Curfew (2026)

Federal Way enforces a juvenile curfew ordinance under Federal Way Revised Code Title 7 (Public Peace) authorized by state law RCW 35.21.635, which expressly permits Washington cities to adopt juvenile curfew ordinances with constitutional exceptions. The curfew applies to persons under 18 years of age in public places, public rights-of-way, and private business establishments open to the public within city limits. Typical curfew hours in Federal Way and other South King County cities are 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight to 6:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday, though exact hours should be confirmed in the current Federal Way Revised Code. Recognized exceptions commonly include: accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, traveling to or from lawful employment, attending a school, religious, or civic event, responding to an emergency, exercising First Amendment rights, being on the sidewalk abutting the minor's own residence, or being a legally emancipated minor. Federal Way Police may detain a minor in apparent violation to verify age and reason for being out, and can transport the minor home or to the police station to await a parent. A first violation typically results in a warning and parent contact; repeat violations can lead to a juvenile infraction with diversion or a civil penalty payable by the parent under FWRC Title 1 and RCW 13.40. The ordinance has generally withstood constitutional review in Washington when exceptions are adequate. Call Federal Way Police non-emergency at 253-835-2121 for questions.