Cape May City Council in New Jersey enacted an emergency curfew for minors this week, prohibiting unaccompanied teenagers from the beach after 8 p.m. and from public spaces after 10:30 p.m. The ordinances, approved unanimously on Thursday, took effect immediately. Individuals under 18 are now barred from the city's beaches and access ways from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. unless accompanied by an adult, and from public areas citywide between 10:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. The previous curfew began at midnight during the summer season. Exceptions are made for minors traveling to or from work.
Cape May Police Department stated that the ordinances aim to maintain a safe environment for residents and visitors during the busy summer season. Mayor Zack Mullock noted that minors from neighboring towns with earlier curfews were coming to Cape May to continue partying, prompting the need for action before isolated incidents turned into a pattern. He emphasized the city's desire to avoid becoming a destination for after-hours activities.
The new regulations also include a restriction on bag sizes for all individuals on the beach and promenade from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., limiting bags to a maximum size of eight inches in height, width, or depth. Medical bags are exempt from this rule. Mayor Mullock reported that the first night of enforcement went smoothly, with families enjoying the evening without incident.
Other shore towns have faced similar issues with teen gatherings. In May, Long Branch police dealt with a large group of teenagers causing disturbances, leading to an emergency curfew and multiple arrests. Some visitors to Cape May expressed support for the new rules, believing they would help prevent trouble caused by a few individuals.