Winston-Salem public parks are closed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM daily under Code Chapter 54. Entering a closed park after hours is a misdemeanor trespass with fines up to $500.
Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks Department operates over 80 public parks and greenways. Under Code of Ordinances Chapter 54 (Parks and Recreation), all parks are closed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM unless specifically posted otherwise or hosting a permitted after-hours event. Major parks including Washington Park, Hanes Park, Reynolds Park, Tanglewood (county), Miller Park, and Salem Lake enforce the standard 10 PM closing. Salem Lake closes at sunset for fishing and boat launch, with different winter and summer hours. Greenways such as the Strollway and Salem Creek Greenway follow the same 10 PM closing. Special events with amplified sound or after-hours use require a special use permit from Recreation and Parks. Trespass in a closed park is a Class 3 misdemeanor under NCGS 14-159.13 as well as a local ordinance violation. Winston-Salem Police and the Parks Ranger program enforce park closures, particularly at locations with a history of late-night issues.
First offense typically: $100 civil citation. Criminal charges (Class 3 misdemeanor trespass) can be added for refusal to leave. Vandalism or drug offenses in parks trigger enhanced enforcement.
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See how Winston-Salem's park curfew rules stack up against other locations.
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