DC has a juvenile curfew under DC Code Section 2-1541 et seq. as amended by the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025. Minors under 17 must be off the streets by 11 PM on weekdays and midnight on weekends. The 2025 amendments extended applicability to 17-year-olds during summer months.
DC's juvenile curfew law (DC Code Section 2-1541 et seq.) prohibits minors from being in public places during curfew hours without a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult. Standard curfew hours are 11 PM to 6 AM Sunday through Thursday and midnight to 6 AM Friday and Saturday for minors under 17. The Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 (DC Act 26-104) extended the curfew to 17-year-olds during June, July, and August, with curfew starting at 11 PM every night. The Chief of Police may establish extended curfew zones in areas experiencing increased juvenile crime. Exceptions include minors traveling to/from work, school events, religious activities, or emergencies.
First offense: the minor is returned to their parent or guardian. Repeat offenses may result in the parent receiving a $500 fine. The Mayor may also refer families to social services. Criminal charges are not typically filed against the minor.
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