Following an emergency vote on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Virginia Beach City Council has implemented a temporary 9:30 p.m. curfew for all ages at the Oceanfront. This drastic measure follows a weekend of violence that local officials described as a “safety crisis,” including a mass shooting on Atlantic Avenue that left eight people injured.
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Curfew Specifics
Effective Dates: Friday and Saturday, April 17–18, and Friday, April 24.

Time: 9:30 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.

Target Area: From Pacific Avenue to the Atlantic Ocean, and from Rudee Loop to 31st Street/Laskin Road.

Who it affects: Unlike standard curfews, this applies to everyone, not just minors.

What is Prohibited?
The city has clarified that recreational activities are strictly banned after 9:30 p.m. in the zone. This includes:

Nighttime walks on the Boardwalk.

Walking to get ice cream or food.

Moving between different bars or restaurants for leisure.

Key Exemptions
You may only be in the curfew zone after 9:30 p.m. if you are:

Traveling to or from a hotel, residence, or workplace.

Attending a ticketed event (such as the Oceanfront Concert Series) or a place of worship.

Seeking emergency medical services.

Working as medical personnel, press, or government/military employees on duty.

Why Now?
The 10–1 council vote was prompted by an appeal from Police Chief Paul Neudigate, who presented video of recent shootings. He argued the curfew was a “necessity for survival” to prevent further tragedy during high-activity weekends.

Note for Minors: The existing 7:00 p.m. curfew for unaccompanied minors remains in effect at the Oceanfront from Friday to Sunday through the end of April. Citywide, a 10:00 p.m. curfew for minors also remains active.