Richmond, CA Curfew Laws: Juvenile Curfew (2026)

Richmond's juvenile curfew ordinance is codified in RMC Chapter 9.32 and applies to any minor under 18 in a public place, establishment of business, or vehicle in Richmond during curfew hours. Standard hours are 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM Friday and Saturday nights. The ordinance contains the constitutionally required exceptions established by Nunez v. City of San Diego (9th Cir. 1997): (1) accompanied by parent/legal guardian or adult 21+ authorized by parent, (2) traveling to/from lawful employment without detour, (3) engaged in interstate travel, (4) responding to an emergency, (5) attending a school, religious, or civic event sponsored by a recognized organization, (6) exercising First Amendment rights of free speech, assembly, or religion, (7) on the sidewalk directly in front of the minor's home or a neighbor's home without complaint, or (8) emancipated. First offense is typically an infraction with a diversion referral to the Richmond Youth Services or Contra Costa Juvenile Probation. Subsequent offenses escalate to fines up to $250 and mandatory parent meetings. Parents who knowingly allow curfew violations face parental responsibility citations. Richmond PD historically used curfew enforcement as part of violence-reduction strategies; current practice emphasizes diversion over prosecution. The separate daytime truancy ordinance (RMC Chapter 9.34) addresses school-hour violations.