Juvenile Curfew Program

Keeping Newark Youth Safe Through Community Engagement

The City of Newark's Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery (OVPTR), in partnership with the Department of Public Safety, operates a youth curfew initiative designed to protect young people, strengthen community connections, and provide support for families. Rather than focusing on punishment, Newark's community-centered approach emphasizes engagement, accountability, and access to resources.

Our Mission: Protect & Connect

The Juvenile Curfew Program is designed to:

  • Reduce youth exposure to violence and victimization.

  • Prevent involvement in criminal activity.

  • Increase positive engagement with youth and families.

  • Connect residents with supportive community resources.

  • Promote accountability while maintaining trust and respect.

Curfew Schedule

Regular Curfew Period

Begins: Friday, May 15

Expanded Summer Curfew

To support community safety during the summer months, curfew enforcement expands to:

July 3 – September 6 (Labor Day Weekend)

During this period, the curfew is in effect seven days per week, including weekends.

Post-Labor Day Schedule

Following Labor Day Weekend, the curfew returns to weekend enforcement (Friday through Sunday) through the final weekend of September.

Positive Community Impact

The City of Newark's curfew initiative has demonstrated measurable success through community engagement and prevention efforts.

Program Outcomes

  • 7% decrease in juvenile arrests during curfew hours in prior years.

  • Zero violence-related youth deaths reported during curfew hours.

  • Increased proactive engagement between youth, families, community organizations, and public safety partners.

A Community-Centered Model

Unlike many jurisdictions, Newark's curfew program prioritizes outreach over enforcement. OVPTR outreach specialists lead resident and youth engagement efforts, while Newark Public Safety personnel provide support when necessary.

This collaborative model helps build trust, strengthen neighborhoods, and ensure young people have access to the resources they need to thrive.

Program Overview

The Juvenile Curfew Program helps ensure the safety and well-being of Newark residents under the age of 18 by encouraging youth to remain in safe environments during late-night hours. OVPTR outreach teams work directly with young people and families to provide guidance, support services, and connections to community resources.

Curfew Hours

11:00 PM – 5:30 AM

During curfew hours, individuals under the age of 18 may not be outdoors more than 100 yards from their residence unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult.

What Happens If a Youth Is Found During Curfew Hours?

Newark's approach focuses on safety and support—not punishment.

If a youth is found violating curfew:

  • OVPTR staff will engage with the young person.

  • Transportation may be provided back to their residence or to the OVPTR office.

  • Staff will work to contact a parent or guardian.

  • Families may be connected to supportive services and community resources when appropriate.

No arrests, fines, or penalties are issued as part of Newark's community-centered curfew model.