Kent, WA Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- KCC 4.01.160
- Hours
- Dusk to dawn, unlawful to remain
- Exception
- Authorized parks and recreation activities
- Overnight vehicles
- KCC 4.01.080(B), towing allowed
- Penalty
- Class 1 civil infraction, RCW 7.80.120
Summary
Kent parks close overnight: KCC 4.01.160 makes it unlawful to remain in any city park between dusk and dawn, or during other hours posted by the city, unless the parks and recreation department has authorized the activity, such as a scheduled evening event.
It is unlawful to remain in any park between dusk and dawn, or during those hours as otherwise posted by the city, except for activities authorized by the parks and recreation department.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4542, passed June 16, 2026).
Full Breakdown
160, titled "Hours," sets Kent's citywide park curfew: it is unlawful to remain in any park between dusk and dawn, or during those hours as otherwise posted by the city, except for activities authorized by the parks and recreation department. 01 definition, meaning parks, playgrounds, athletic complexes, community centers, trails, beaches, and the parking lots and garages that serve them. 160. 160 by Ordinance No. 3158 in 1994, amending the original 1988 parks and recreation chapter. Enforcement rests with the Kent Police Department, which patrols city parks after closing and can issue civil infractions to anyone found in a park after dusk without an authorized permit, reservation, or scheduled parks and recreation activity. 170, so a person found in a park after dark bears the burden of showing an authorized activity applies.
Violations & Fines
Remaining in a Kent park after dusk without an authorized activity is a class 1 civil infraction under RCW 7.80.120(1)(a), enforced under KCC 4.01.220(A)(1) by Kent police. A vehicle left in a park overnight is instead a class 3 civil infraction under KCC 4.01.220(A)(2) and may be towed at the owner's expense. Each day of continued violation is charged as a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do Kent city parks close?
Can my car get towed for being in a Kent park at night?
Is there any way to be in a Kent park legally after dark?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kent
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Park Curfew in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle park curfew.