Illinois Juvenile Curfew Law: Statewide Curfew Laws Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: 720 ILCS 555
Age Limit: Under 17
Weeknight Curfew: 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Weekend Curfew: 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Full Breakdown

The Child Curfew Act (720 ILCS 555) makes it unlawful for any person under 17 to be in a public place between 12:01 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday and between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weeknights, with exceptions for minors accompanied by a parent, traveling to or from work, or exercising First Amendment rights. Parents and guardians who knowingly permit a violation are also liable. Municipalities may adopt stricter local curfews but cannot weaken the state floor.

Violations & Penalties

A curfew violation is a petty offense punishable by a fine; repeat parental violations may be charged as Class C misdemeanors under local ordinance schemes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Illinois cities set later curfew hours than the state?

No. Municipal curfews must be at least as strict as the Child Curfew Act; cities can tighten hours or add penalties but cannot exempt minors from the state minimum.

Are there exceptions to Illinois curfew?

Yes. Minors accompanied by a parent or guardian, traveling to or from employment, responding to an emergency, or engaged in protected First Amendment activity are exempt under 720 ILCS 555/1.

Illinois Child Curfew Act Sets Statewide Minimum Curfew

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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