Holmdel and Hazlet enforce Halloween curfews for unaccompanied minors

Holmdel and Hazlet in New Jersey have established temporary curfews for unaccompanied minors ahead of Halloween. The restrictions apply to residents under the age of 18 who are not with a parent, guardian, or legal custodian. Local officials issued these rules to manage nighttime activity in public spaces during the holiday period.

In Hazlet, the curfew takes effect on October 29, 30, and 31. It remains in force from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. during those dates. If October 31 falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, the restriction also covers November 1. Township officials state that no person under 18 may be on public streets, highways, alleys, parks, or other public places on foot or in any type of conveyance during these hours without a supervising adult.

Holmdel’s temporary curfew is shorter in duration. It applies only on Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31. The restriction begins at dusk each night and ends at 6 a.m. the following morning. This measure is based on a township resolution targeting unaccompanied minors in the area.

Both townships include specific exceptions to the rules. The curfew does not apply if a minor is traveling to or from a place of employment or a school. It also does not apply when attending a function sponsored by a religious, school, civic, or properly supervised program. Additionally, minors may move freely if they are part of a bona fide, supervised social meeting or gathering taking place at their home.

Residents must adhere to these dates and times to avoid being in violation of local ordinances. The rules specify that the presence of a parent, guardian, or legal custodian exempts the minor from the restriction. These measures are set in place for the immediate Halloween weekend and the following morning where applicable.