Daytime Curfew
There is no statewide curfew law in California. Sometimes
you’ll hear people say that California Ed. Code 48200 is where
the statewide curfew exists. This section of the code talks
about truancy from public school, and private schools are exempt:
48220. The classes of children described in this article, shall be exempted by the proper school authorities from the requirements of attendance upon a public full-time day school.
Many cities in California do have daytime curfew laws. Most include a statement saying that the curfew applies on days and/or times when the student’s school is in session. If the student’s school is not in session during that day or time, the curfew doesn’t apply to them.
Sometimes teens who may be out in the community without
their parent may be stopped in daytime curfew communities.
Whether you live in a curfew community or not, it’s a good
idea for the older kids who are out during public school hours
to carry a school ID card with them, and to know how to reach
you by phone. They should be instructed to politely explain
that their private school is not in session and that they
have permission from their parent to be out. If there is a
problem, contact CHN at 800-327-5339 or email CHN's Legal
Rights Team.
If you are unsure about curfew laws in your community, you can check to see if your city has their municipal code online here. or you can call the police department or your city councilman and ask for a copy of the code. Ask for it in print so you can read it yourself.
Additional resources:
Americans for a Society Free
From Age Restrictions .
A Status Report on Youth Curfew Laws in American Cities
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