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Fayetteville, NC Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Restricted hours
11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Code section
Code of Ordinances § 18-19
Also covers
Market House, city-owned museums
Watershed lakes
Dawn to dusk only
Exception
Permit under § 18-11

Summary

Fayetteville makes it unlawful to sleep, camp, or otherwise stay in a city park, at the Market House, or at a city-owned museum between 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. A parks permit lifts the restriction.

It shall be unlawful for any person to sleep, camp or otherwise stay in a city park, at the Market House, or at City-owned museums overnight, between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., unless by permit authorized pursuant to section 18-11.

Source: Fayetteville Code of Ordinances & Unified Development OrdinanceView official code

Full Breakdown

Section 18-19 of Chapter 18 sets the overnight restriction and names three categories of property: city parks, the Market House, and city-owned museums. The only route around it is a permit issued under Section 18-11, which requires an application to the parks and recreation director naming the sponsoring group, the day and hours sought, the park or portion of it, and the expected attendance. City watershed lakes run on a separate rule: Section 18-43 bars the public from any lake except from dawn to dusk. The parks and recreation director designates which properties carry park status, with signage at each entrance.

Violations & Fines

Civil penalty under the council fee schedule plus a misdemeanor fine between $50.00 and $500.00 under Section 18-21. Park rangers, code enforcement, and sworn officers issue citations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hold an event in a park after 11 p.m.?
Apply to the parks and recreation director under Section 18-11. The director reviews attendance, public enjoyment, safety, and whether the facility is already reserved.
Do the same hours apply at city lakes?
No. Section 18-43 limits public access to watershed lakes to dawn through dusk, and the public works commission manager can close a lake to protect the water supply.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Fayetteville

All Fayetteville rules

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