Marina
In an effort to promote safety and reduce late-night incidents involving minors, Kansas City has reinstated its summer curfew for teenagers. Effective from May 23, 2025, the curfew will remain in place until the last Sunday of September.
This initiative aims to decrease unsupervised youth activity during late-night hours, particularly in the city’s bustling entertainment districts.
Curfew Details
The curfew applies to all individuals under the age of 18 and varies based on location and age group:
Entertainment Districts
In designated entertainment areas, minors must adhere to stricter curfew hours:
- Curfew Hours: 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM
- Applicable Areas:
- 18th & Vine District
- Central Business District
- Country Club Plaza
- Westport Shopping District
- Zona Rosa Shopping District
Citywide Curfew
Outside the entertainment districts, the curfew times are as follows:
- Ages 15 and under: 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
- Ages 16 and 17: 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Exceptions to the Curfew
Certain exceptions allow minors to be present during curfew hours:
- Accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- Engaged in an emergency errand
- Returning from a school or recreational activity
- Returning from lawful employment
- Attending or traveling to/from activities protected by the First Amendment
- Traveling through the city (e.g., interstate travel)
- Participating in city-approved events that permit minors
Enforcement and Penalties
The curfew is enforced by local law enforcement agencies. While minors found in violation may be detained until released to a guardian or until 6:00 AM, they will not face criminal charges. However, parents or guardians can be held accountable:
- Fines: Up to $500
- Additional Measures: Mandatory family counseling sessions
Curfew Schedule Overview
| Location | Age Group | Curfew Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Entertainment Districts | Under 18 | 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
| Citywide | 15 and under | 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
| Citywide | 16–17 | 11:00 PM – 6:00 AM |
Community Response
Community leaders and organizations have expressed support for the curfew as a step toward ensuring youth safety. Monique Johnston, Executive Director of Youth Ambassadors, emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces and boundaries for teens during summer months.
The organization plans to host activities such as painting, music, and food events on Saturday nights to provide engaging alternatives for youth.
Similarly, Di’Anna Saffold, founder of Village KC, highlighted the need for structured activities to keep teens engaged and safe. The city is also promoting programs like Mayor’s Night Hoops, set to commence on June 7, offering recreational opportunities for young residents.
Kansas City’s summer curfew for teens is a proactive measure aimed at enhancing safety and reducing unsupervised youth activity during late-night hours.
By implementing specific curfew times and promoting community programs, the city seeks to create a secure environment for its younger residents throughout the summer months.