Rehoboth Beach adopts curfew for minors

May 16, 2025

The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners adopted this afternoon an amendment to the city code that establishes a curfew for minors, individuals who are under 18 years of age, from 11 pm-5 am daily. During those hours, juveniles are prohibited, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, from being in public places or on the premises of privately owned businesses within the City of Rehoboth Beach.

Commissioners’ consideration of such a curfew comes on the heels of fighting and littering incidents this spring that involved juveniles, but more significantly following a trend that has seen complaints to the Rehoboth Police Department related to juvenile behaviors increase by 110% over the past three years.

“A youth curfew isn’t going to address all situations of concern,” notes Police Chief Keith Banks, “but it does offer another important tool that will help officers ensure the safety of our businesses, residents, and visitors. Implementing a youth curfew is something that we’ve thought about over the past couple of years and, in light of trends we’re seeing, now seems the appropriate time to consider adopting one.”

Several exceptions to the curfew are outlined in the new ordinance, including for minors who are accompanied by their parents or guardians and youth who are involved in interstate travel, employment activities, or an emergency.

Any minor or parent of the minor may be subject to a $100 fine plus court costs for a first offense and up to $300 for subsequent violations. The City of Rehoboth Beach Alderman’s Court will have jurisdiction over all proceedings related to the curfew.

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