Kanawha County, WV Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)
Key Facts
- Typical hours
- Dusk or posted
- Trails
- Often dawn to dusk
- Countywide curfew
- None; posted per park
- After-hours offense
- Trespass, § 61-3B-3
- Overnight vehicle
- May be towed
Summary
Parks across Kanawha County close after dark, whether run by the county, the City of Charleston, or the state. Staying past posted hours is a trespass under W. Va. Code 61-3B-3 once notice is given by signs or fencing.
It is an unlawful trespass for any person to knowingly, and without being authorized, licensed, or invited, to enter or remain on any property, other than a structure or conveyance, as to which notice against entering or remaining is either given by actual communication to such person or by posting, fencing, or cultivation.
Full Breakdown
Park hours across Kanawha County are set by whoever owns the park. The county's Kanawha County Parks and Recreation Commission runs regional grounds like Coonskin Park, which post closing times, often dusk or a fixed evening hour, with trails commonly dawn to dusk. Charleston, South Charleston, and other cities post their own park hours, and state areas set theirs. No single countywide park curfew exists; the posted sign at each entrance controls. Once closing is posted, remaining is an unlawful trespass under W. Va. Code 61-3B-3, triggered by notice given through posting, fencing, or actual communication. A vehicle left overnight in a closed lot can be ticketed or towed.
Violations & Fines
County and city police and park staff enforce closing hours. Remaining in a posted park after hours is criminal trespass under W. Va. Code 61-3B-3, drawing a citation and removal, and an overnight vehicle can be towed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do Kanawha County parks close?
Can I be cited for being in a park after hours?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kanawha County
Compare Kanawha County to another location·View the West Virginia curfew laws overview
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