Charleston, SC Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)

Section 22-2 of the Charleston City Code, adopted under Ordinance No. 2010-111, states that every public park, park facility, recreational facility and playground in the city 'shall be closed from dusk to dawn' unless the site is hosting a city-organized or permitted activity, is staffed by the city, or the director of the department of recreation or the director of the department of parks has ordered different hours of operation. Either director independently holds authority to close any park, facility, playground or portion of one for maintenance or ground protection at any time, regardless of the standard dusk-to-dawn schedule.

The rule sits within Chapter 22's Article I, whose stated purpose under § 22-1 is to ensure the fullest public use and enjoyment of the city's parks consistent with protecting people, public property and the tranquility of surrounding neighborhoods. Department of Recreation functions have priority over other park activities under § 22-2's companion section, § 22-3, and anyone violating the article's rules, including the closure hours, is guilty of a misdemeanor under § 22-9, punishable per the Code's general penalty at § 1-16.