Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Juvenile Curfew Local Authority Statute

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

Virginia authorizes localities to enact juvenile curfew ordinances under specific enabling statutes, with state law setting maximum penalties and constitutional safeguards uniformly.

Key Facts

Enabling statute: Va. Code § 15.2-926
Penalty class: Class 4 misdemeanor max
Fine cap: $250 for juvenile
Required exceptions: First Amendment, work, emergency

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System

Full Breakdown

Va. Code § 15.2-926 expressly enables localities to adopt juvenile curfew ordinances. Curfew violations are typically punishable as a Class 4 misdemeanor (max $250 fine, no jail) under § 18.2-11. Ordinances must include constitutional exceptions for First Amendment activity, employment, emergency, and accompaniment by a parent. Without § 15.2-926 authority, Dillon's Rule would bar local curfews. The state preempts on penalty maxima but leaves curfew hours and age limits to localities.

Violations & Penalties

Class 4 misdemeanor (up to $250 fine) for juvenile; parental civil penalty up to $500 in some localities. No jail for juveniles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Virginia city set any curfew hours it wants?

Localities choose hours and ages within reason under § 15.2-926, but courts strike down curfews lacking adequate exceptions for protected activity. Most run 11pm-6am for under-18s.

What happens if a juvenile violates curfew?

Typically a Class 4 misdemeanor citation with up to a $250 fine. The juvenile court may order community service. Parents can be civilly liable for repeat violations under local ordinances.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Virginia city set any curfew hours it wants?

Localities choose hours and ages within reason under § 15.2-926, but courts strike down curfews lacking adequate exceptions for protected activity. Most run 11pm-6am for under-18s.

What happens if a juvenile violates curfew?

Typically a Class 4 misdemeanor citation with up to a $250 fine. The juvenile court may order community service. Parents can be civilly liable for repeat violations under local ordinances.