Salt Lake County, UT Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)

Salt Lake County parks are regulated under Title 15 of the County Code of Ordinances, administered by Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation. Urban parks generally close between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM, while regional parks and canyon trailheads such as those in Millcreek Canyon and the Oquirrh foothills often close at 10:00 PM or at sunset depending on seasonal signage. Closed hours are clearly posted at park entrances. Entering or remaining in a closed park without authorization is a Class B misdemeanor under Utah Code Section 76-6-206 criminal trespass and County ordinance, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a 1000 dollar fine, though first offenses are typically resolved with a warning or citation and a small fine. Permitted activities such as organized sports events, weddings, fireworks shows, and stargazing programs may continue past closing with a written permit from Parks and Recreation. Camping is prohibited in urban parks and most regional parks, though designated campgrounds operate under separate rules. Canyon parks like Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood are managed in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service under federal closure rules. Park curfew protects public safety, reduces vandalism and illegal dumping, enables maintenance, and preserves sensitive wildlife habitat during nocturnal hours. Unified Police Department patrols enforce park closures, often with rangers in larger regional parks. Vehicles remaining in park lots after closing may be ticketed or towed at owner expense.