Provo City

Curfew


 

Provo City Curfew Ordinance - It's the Law!

 
It is usually between the early evening and late night time hours that a majority of activities take place for the younger set. During these hours juveniles of various ages may gather together to "hang out." They will gather together in restaurants, convenience stores, or just about anywhere to pass the time or share exciting news. Weekends may find these juveniles at a school-sponsored activity or function. This may all seem quite natural. But it is after such social events that young people may find themselves in trouble.
 

What are Curfew Laws?

 
Curfew Laws are regulations which specify the hours that certain age groups must remain off public streets, sidewalks or other public ways. Most cities have curfew laws intended to keep juveniles off the streets after certain hours for their own protection.
 

In Provo City the curfew law is as follows:

 
  1. Juveniles 15 years of age or younger must be off the streets between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
  2. Juveniles 16 and 17 years of age must be off the streets Sunday through Thursday between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., Saturday and Sunday between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Exceptions to the law can apply when the minor is:

 
  • Accompanied by a parent, guardian or other responsible adult having care and custody of the minor.
  • Engaged in legitimate employment which requires the minor's presence in public places while working or traveling to or from employment.
  • Engaged on an emergency errand directed by the minor's parents. Engaged in interstate travel.
  • Engaged in traveling between the minor's home and a place where a social function is occurring.

Enforcement

 
A minor who violates the curfew law is subject to arrest and citation. Upon arrest, the minor shall be returned to the custody of his/her parents. Anyone who violates this law is guilty of a Class B Misdemeanor.
 

Parental Liability

 
It is unlawful for any parent, guardian or other person having care and custody of any minor to permit the minor to violate the curfew law.
 

Points To Remember

 
15 and younger:
11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
 
16 - 17 year of age
11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
 
Sunday through Thursday, 1 a.m. to 5 a.m.
Saturday and Sunday (Friday and Saturday nights)
 

TO SOME JUVENILES, CURFEW LAWS SOUND UNFAIR; BUT ARE THEY?

 
Most teenagers feel that curfew laws are unfair. They may feel that such laws put a damper' on their fun. But actually such laws are made to protect them. Most serious crimes take place in the late hours of the night. If a juvenile is found at the wrong place at the wrong time were a crime is taking place, he/she could become involved, either as a victim or a suspect. It is also during such late hours that many sex crimes take place. If you have any other concerns or questions regarding curfew laws and your neighborhood, call your Neighborhood Officer or Sgt. Huntsman.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Provo Police Department
48 South 300 West
PO Box 1849
Provo, UT 84603