Independence, MO Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)
Key Facts
- Park hours
- 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.
- After-hours offense
- 2nd-degree trespass
- Max fine
- $200.00
- Liability standard
- Absolute liability
- Exception
- Sponsored or permitted activities
Summary
Independence city parks, shelter houses, playing fields, and parking lots close at 11 p.m. and reopen at 6 a.m.; being in a park after hours is second-degree trespass.
Parks, shelter houses, playing fields and parking lots shall be open for use by the public from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. A person commits the offense of trespass in the second degree if he or she enters unlawfully upon park property of the City from the hours of 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., except when participating in or a spectator at an activity sponsored by or with a special user permit from the Independence Parks Recreation Department. This is an offense of absolute liability. A person who has been convicted of this infraction may be sentenced to pay a fine which does not exceed $200.00. (Ord. No. 19518, § 1, 1-2-2024; Ord. No. 19679, § 1, 6-2-2025)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 13).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 13.01.005(B) sets standard hours for parks, shelter houses, playing fields, and parking lots at 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Anyone who enters city park property between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. commits second-degree trespass, an absolute-liability offense that does not require proof of intent, unless they are participating in or attending an activity sponsored by, or holding a special user permit from, the Independence Parks Recreation Department.
Violations & Fines
Entering a park after closing hours is second-degree trespass, an absolute-liability offense punishable by a fine of up to $200.00 under § 13.01.005(B).
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do parks close in Independence, Missouri?
What happens if I'm in an Independence park after closing?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Independence
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Park Curfew in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Jackson County handle park curfew.