Tarrant County, TX Curfew Laws: Juvenile Curfew (2026)

Juvenile curfew ordinances in Texas have undergone significant change. Historically, many Texas cities adopted curfews prohibiting minors under 17 from being in public places during late night hours (typically 11 PM to 6 AM on weekdays and 12 AM to 6 AM on weekends) and during school hours. Texas Local Government Code Section 370.002 required cities and counties to review these ordinances at least every three years to determine their continued need, and in 2023 HB 1819 amended state law to further restrict the use of juvenile curfews, with many jurisdictions allowing them to sunset or affirmatively repealing them. Tarrant County itself does not operate a county-wide curfew in unincorporated areas. Cities such as Fort Worth, Arlington, and others that previously had curfew ordinances have updated or eliminated them in response to state law changes and civil liberties concerns. Minors found in public during late hours may still be subject to general laws including truancy (Texas Education Code Chapter 25), loitering at school grounds (Texas Education Code Section 37.102), and alcohol possession by a minor. Parents remain responsible for supervision under Texas Family Code standards, and repeated problems can result in Child Protective Services referrals. Law enforcement may stop minors out late under the general community caretaking doctrine when welfare concerns exist. Emergency curfews during severe events (civil unrest, natural disasters) may be issued by the county judge under Texas Government Code Chapter 418.