The Act: For Children

• Also referred to as Illinois Law 720 ILCS 555/1, the Child Curfew Act makes it unlawful for persons under the age of 17 to be in public places after midnight on weekends, and 11:00 p.m. on weekdays. In addition, individuals under 17 years of age may not return to public facilities or buildings until after 6:00 a.m. the following day. Children are supervised by a parent or responsible adult are exempt. In such instances, minors are not subject to curfew limits.
  
  

The Act: For Parents

• Parents must ensure their children comply with the curfew act. It is a crime for a parent or guardian to knowingly permit the child to violate the curfew. Likewise, it is a crime for a parent or guardian to compel a child under his or her custody to complete an activity that will violate the act. Parents and legal guardians should be aware of state and local laws concerning curfews in order to ensure compliance.
  
  

Driving Restrictions

• Individuals under 17 years of age holding a state driver license are not permitted to drive during curfew hours. Although valid during school and work hours, the license becomes invalid after midnight on weekends and 11:00 p.m. on weekdays. After this time individuals must either present a note authorizing commute from a job or school activity, or have a responsible adult in the vehicle with them. Teenagers in violation of these conditions stand the risk of having their provisional license suspended.
  
  

Enforcement and Penalties

• Law enforcement officers must ask the age of a suspected violator before citing or arresting him for curfew violation. Individuals found guilty of the crime are subject to a minimum fine of $10 as of this publication. Such a fine may be extended to a maximum $500 depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. A record of delinquency will be made with the state and the violator's parents may be mandated to complete community service hours by the court. In some instances, community service may be assigned in lieu of fines. Such a decision, however, is reserved for the courts.