Starting April 1, the City of Fairfield will be enforcing a curfew for minors under the age of 17. The curfew was passed by the Fairfield City Council in February. The reason for this curfew is due to an increase in acts of vandalism and juveniles roaming the streets at night. Since this curfew is new to many in the city, here are a few frequently asked questions about the new curfew ordinance.
–When does the curfew begin?
The city will start enforcing the curfew on April 1.
–Why is the city implementing this curfew?
The reason for this curfew is due to an increase in acts of vandalism and instances of juveniles roaming the streets. Without the curfew ordinance, officers can ask these juveniles to go home, but there is no legal vehicle to send them home.
–Do other cities have a curfew?
Yes, most cities do. In fact, Fairfield was the last city in Freestone County to institute a curfew.
–Where will this curfew take place?
This curfew will be in effect inside city limits, including the park, city streets, and businesses.
–Is this curfew due to COVID-19?
No. This curfew for juveniles is due to acts of vandalism and instances of juveniles roaming the streets. Although some cities have enacted curfews due to COVID-19, the pandemic is not a reason for the curfew. The curfew is to curtail juvenile crime.
–What are the hours of the curfew?
The curfew is from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Sundays through Thursdays. On weekends, Friday and Saturday, the curfew hours are from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 6 a.m.
–Are there exceptions to the curfew?
Yes, there are. There are exceptions to the curfew. The exceptions are for:
1. Minors accompanied by a parent.
2. Minors running an errand for a parent. (The minor has to have a note from a parent stating the errant and giving consent.)
3. Minors in a vehicle engaging in interstate travel
4. Minors engaged in an employment activity
5. Minors involved in an emergency circumstance
6. Minors on the sidewalk in front of their residence or at a nextdoor neighbor if the neighbor has not complained about the minor’s presence
7. Minors attending an official school, civic, or religious activity
8. Minors attending or traveling involving the exercise of First Amendment rights protected by the U.S. Constitution, including the free exercise of religion, freedom of speech, and the right of assembly
9. Minors who are married, had been married or had disabilities of minority removed by a court
10. Minors accompanied by a person 21 years of age or over and the minor was carrying written permission from a parent.
–What will happen if a minor is violating the curfew?
That minor will not be going to jail just for violating the curfew. For first-time offenders, a written warning will likely be given to the minor and the minor’s parent(s), and the minor will be either taken home or the minor’s parents will pick the minor up. Further violations could result in a citation and possible fine.
–What is the fine?
A juvenile court can levy a fine of up to $500. Parents could also be issued citations and fines for curfew violations.
–How long will this curfew be in effect?
State law allows this curfew to be in effect for three years. Prior to that three-year expiration, the City Council will review the effects of the curfew and decide whether to continue or repeal the curfew.
Anyone with questions can contact the Fairfield Police Department at 903-389-3901, the Municipal Court at 903-389-2903, or City Hall at 903-389-2633.
You can find the text of the ordinance here.
