Q: I have children under 18—what are the curfew laws in Garfield Heights?


A: Curfew laws vary with the age of the child and the situation. Minors may not be upon any streets or sidewalks or in a public place (restaurant, bowling alley, shop, theater, store, pool hall, shopping center, and any other place devoted to the amusement or entertainment of the general public) unless accompanied by a relative over 18, a guardian, or some other responsible person over 21 years of age.

  • If the minor is attending or actively participating in a school, church, or city-wide event, then the curfew for such a minor shall be extended to one-half hour after the termination of such event.

THE NEW CURFEW HOURS BY AGE ARE:

  • Under 12: 9:00 p.m. – dawn
  • 13-14: 9:30 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.
  • 15-16: 11:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.
  • 17: midnight – 6:00 a.m.

You are free to set curfew hours within your own household, so long as they include the restrictions above. If your child is found by a police officer to be in violation of the curfew laws, the child will be returned to your residence, these laws will be explained to you and the child, and the police officer may issue citations for the violation. The citation for the parent/guardian is for a fourth degree misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and a $250 fine. The penalty for a subsequent violation is a first degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. (Codified Ordinance Section 531.04)

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Q: Where can I park my car?

Common Legal Questions Asked by Residents
A: YOU CANNOT PARK CARS ANYWHERE ON YOUR LAWN (FRONTYARD OR BACKYARD). YOU MAY NOT PARK CARS IN YOUR DRIVEWAY IF THEY INTERFERE WITH PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC ON THE SIDEWALK.
Cars should be parked in your garage at night. If you have more cars than garage space, you may park them in the driveway, close to the garage. If your residential area allows street parking, you may not park a car within 3 feet of a driveway. (Codified Ordinance Section 351.03)

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What is ethnic intimidation?

Common Legal Questions Asked by Residents

Q: What is ethnic intimidation?
A: Ethnic intimidation is a criminal offense under Ohio Revised Code Section 2927.12 and Codified Ordinance Section 541.09. It is a separate offense from aggravated menacing, criminal damaging or endangering, menacing, criminal mischief or telephone harassment when committed because of the victim’s race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, Vietnam-era or disabled veteran status, or the victim’s desire to live or travel in any neighborhood. Violation of this law is an offense of the next higher degree than the offense, one of those mentioned above, that was committed.

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Garfield Heights Ordinance on Loitering: Maintaining Public Safety

Garfield Heights, Ohio, enforces a specific ordinance under Chapter 509.12 that addresses the issue of loitering. This ordinance aims to prevent individuals from lingering in public places without a legitimate reason, thereby helping to maintain public safety and order.

Key Aspects of the Loitering Ordinance

  1. Definition and Prohibition: The ordinance defines loitering as remaining idle in essentially one location, including wandering around without a clear purpose, particularly in a manner that may obstruct others or pose a potential disturbance. It prohibits loitering in public places, such as streets, parks, and business fronts, especially when it leads to disorderly conduct.
  2. Enforcement: Law enforcement officers in Garfield Heights are authorized to disperse individuals or groups found loitering. They can issue warnings or citations and, in some cases, arrest individuals who fail to comply with an order to disperse.
  3. Penalties: Violations of the loitering ordinance can result in fines or other penalties. The specific consequences depend on the nature of the offense and whether the individual has previous violations.

Importance of the Ordinance

The loitering ordinance plays a crucial role in maintaining the community’s safety and well-being. By regulating public spaces, the city can reduce potential criminal activities, ensure free passage for pedestrians, and support local businesses by providing a secure environment for customers. This ordinance also helps the police manage and prevent potentially disruptive gatherings, contributing to the overall peace and order of Garfield Heights.

For more detailed information, you can access the full text of the ordinance and related laws on the Garfield Heights Codified Ordinances website. This site provides comprehensive details on local regulations and guidelines to help residents and visitors understand their rights and responsibilities.

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