NYC Parks close from 1 AM to 6 AM under Parks Rules §1-03(a). Being in a park during closed hours is a violation regardless of age. Certain parks and facilities have additional or different operating hours. NYPD Parks Unit and Parks Enforcement Patrol enforce park hours.
Under NYC Parks Rules §1-03(a), all NYC parks are closed to the public from 1 AM to 6 AM unless otherwise posted or permitted by the Parks Commissioner. This applies to all persons regardless of age. Some parks have different hours: Central Park closes at 1 AM and reopens at 6 AM; playgrounds typically close at dusk; and certain waterfront parks, dog runs, and recreation centers have posted individual hours. The Parks Commissioner may extend hours for special events (concerts, movie screenings, etc.). NYPD Parks Unit patrols and Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP) officers enforce park hours. PEP officers have limited peace officer powers and can issue summonses. After-hours activity in parks is associated with increased safety concerns and maintenance issues. Homeless individuals in parks present a humanitarian dimension to after-hours enforcement, and NYC has partnered outreach services with enforcement. Park permits may authorize after-hours access for specific activities (film shoots, early morning races, etc.).
Being in a park after hours: Parks Rules violation, summons with $50 fine. Refusing to leave when directed: potential criminal trespass charge. Repeat violations may result in park exclusion orders. Summonses are adjudicated at OATH.
New York, NY
New York City enforces strict noise rules under Administrative Code Title 24, Chapter 2 (the NYC Noise Code, rewritten by Local Law 113 of 2005). Sound excee...
New York, NY
NYC bans commercial vehicles on residential streets 9 PM-5 AM and caps any commercial-vehicle parking at 3 hours per block (NYC Admin Code §19-170). 'Commerc...
New York, NY
In NYC residence districts, Zoning Resolution §23-44 limits fences in front yards to 4 feet above adjoining grade and permits walls up to 8 feet (not roofed ...
New York, NY
Section 161.05 of the New York City Health Code requires every dog in any public place, or in any open or unfenced area abutting a public place, to be effect...
New York, NY
All consumer fireworks are illegal in New York City, including sparkling devices that are legal in much of New York State. NYC Fire Code Section FC 5601.3.2 ...
New York, NY
New York City has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on private property. Landmark Preservation Commiss...
See how New York's park curfew rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.