Charleston, WV Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)
Key Facts
- Summer closing
- 11:00 p.m.–6:00 a.m.
- Winter closing
- 9:00 p.m.–6:00 a.m.
- Season split
- Memorial Day to Labor Day
- Enforcement
- Citation or arrest, officer's discretion
Summary
Charleston closes every city park overnight, with seasonal cutoffs enforced by police and the parks director.
No person shall remain, loiter, idle, stroll, wander or play in or upon the public grounds of any city park during the hours the park is closed. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, all city parks will be closed between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. ... From Labor Day to Memorial Day, all city parks will be closed between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 56).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 82-122, city parks close at 11:00 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day and at 9:00 p.m. the rest of the year, reopening at 6:00 a.m. Loitering, idling, or playing on park grounds after closing is unlawful unless the director of parks and recreation or the police chief authorizes it in writing. The director or chief can also order any park closed for up to ten straight days if conditions make it unsafe.
Violations & Fines
Violating the park-hours rule draws the general penalty under Sec. 1-8; officers may issue a citation or make an arrest at their discretion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do Charleston parks close?
Can a park be closed early for other reasons?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Charleston
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