Understanding Columbus' Curfew Ordinance

On June 29, 2026, Columbus City Council approved updates to the city's curfew ordinance for minors. The legislation maintains age-based curfew hours, clarifies exemptions, creates a graduated enforcement process focused on intervention and family engagement, and establishes new parental responsibility provisions that take effect in 2027.

Curfew Hours

Under 13: 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Ages 13-17: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Curfew Exemptions

A minor is not in violation of curfew if they are:

  • Accompanied by a parent, guardian or responsible adult.
  • Running an emergency errand or legitimate task for a parent or guardian.
  • A member of the U.S. military.
  • A full-time college or trade school student.
  • Involved in an emergency.
  • Working or traveling directly to or from work with employer-issued identification.
  • Returning home within 30 minutes of a school, religious, community or entertainment activity (not after 1 a.m.).
  • Exercising First Amendment rights after providing advance written notice.

Curfew Enforcement

The ordinance emphasizes education, family engagement and connecting youth with community resources before more serious consequences are considered.

Initial Contact

An officer may:

  • Issue a warning
  • Notify a parent or guardian
  • Return the minor a parent, guardian or home
  • Refer the family to community resources

First Violation (Delayed enforcement: January 1, 2027)

After multiple contacts, the court may:

  • Minor misdemeanor
  • Court coordinates meeting with parent/guardian
  • Court considers referral to juvenile intervention services program

Repeated Violations (Delayed enforcement: January 1, 2027)

  • Third-degree misdemeanor
  • Family intervention meeting
  • Violence intervention assessment
  • Education program and/or community service

Parental Responsibility

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, Parents, guardians or other adults who recklessly permit or fail to adequately supervise repeated curfew violations may face an unclassified misdemeanor.

Potential outcomes include:

  • Required educational or certification program
  • 1–10 hours of community service
  • Fine of up to $50 per offense

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the ordinance updated?

The ordinance creates a clearer enforcement process that prioritizes warnings, family engagement and referrals to community resources while maintaining accountability for repeated violations.

Did the curfew hours change?

The ordinance extends the overnight end time to 6 a.m. for both age groups.

When do the new penalties begin?

The more serious penalties for repeated violations and the parental responsibility provisions begin Jan. 1, 2027 to allow time for intervention programs and implementation.

Where can I read the full ordinance?

The full text of the ordinance is available online through this link.

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