Virginia Beach, VA Curfew Laws: Park Curfew (2026)
Key Facts
- Hours
- Closed sunset to sunrise daily
- Penalty
- $200 to $500 fine
- Charge
- Misdemeanor (unspecified class)
- Enforcement
- Virginia Beach Police Department
- Exception
- City-sponsored or permitted events exempt
Summary
Virginia Beach closes all city parks and their parking areas between sunset and sunrise; anyone who enters or remains during those hours faces a misdemeanor charge and a $200 to $500 fine.
Any person who remains, goes or enters upon any city park, or the park's parking areas, between sunset and sunrise shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine not less than two hundred dollars ($200) and not more than five hundred dollars ($500).(b)This section shall not apply during city-sponsored events or events authorized by city permit, nor shall it apply to any city employee or authorized agent while in the performance of official duties.(c)As provided by Code of Virginia § 15.2-1124, city parks and parking areas are under city police jurisdiction for the enforcement of this section pertaining to the use and occupancy thereof.(d)For the purpose of this section, "city park" means any city-owned and operated property open to the public for general recreational use, including, but not limited to traditional park areas, canoe and kayak launch areas, and the disabled children's beach playground known as Grommet Park. The term "city park" does not include city-owned golf courses or city-owned and operated motor boat launch ramp areas. (Ord. No. 3153, 10-26-10)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 23-43.2 makes it a misdemeanor to remain, go or enter upon any city park or its parking areas between sunset and sunrise, punishable by a fine of $200 to $500. The ban doesn't apply during city-sponsored events, events under a city permit, or to city employees and agents performing official duties. Virginia Code § 15.2-1124 places city parks and parking areas under Virginia Beach Police Department jurisdiction for enforcement. "City park" covers city-owned recreational property generally, including canoe/kayak launches and Grommet Park, but excludes municipal golf courses and motor boat launch ramps.
Violations & Fines
Entering or remaining in a city park or its parking lot after sunset is a misdemeanor carrying a $200 to $500 fine, enforced by Virginia Beach Police.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be in a Virginia Beach park after dark for a scheduled event?
What happens if I'm caught in a city park after sunset?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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