Newport Beach city officials have voted unanimously to impose a curfew for minors and introduce stricter traffic controls on select holiday weekends, targeting large-scale gatherings the city refers to as “teen takeovers.” The decision was made Tuesday by the city council.
The new ordinance mandates a curfew for minors from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day along the Balboa Peninsula. Additionally, it grants the police chief or city manager the authority to restrict pedestrian and vehicle access, close piers, parks, and sections of beaches, designate rideshare drop-off and pick-up points, and establish temporary curfews across the city during these holidays.
This action follows a significant incident on the Fourth of July weekend when social media posts reportedly led to thousands of individuals descending upon the city, resulting in multiple fights, street fireworks, and the looting of a grocery store. The ordinance states that more than 400 arrests were made during that weekend, with 328 occurring shortly after midnight on July 5. A staff report indicated that over 97% of those arrested were from outside Newport Beach, and approximately 20% were between 13 and 18 years old.
The ordinance also cited previous incidents, reporting 33 arrests and 63 citations over Labor Day weekend in 2025, and 60 arrests and 287 citations issued over Memorial Day weekend in 2026.
According to the ordinance, the newly established curfew aims to “encourage parental supervision, reduce opportunities for victimization and criminal conduct, and assist law enforcement officers in safely restoring public order.” Exceptions to the curfew include employment, emergencies, travel, religious activities, school functions, and situations where parental supervision is present.
Councilmember Erik Weigand supported the measure, stating, "This gives us an additional piece of armor on these holidays." Councilmember Noah Blom commented on the efficiency of the government in addressing the issue, characterizing the action as "probably some of the more efficient government."
During the meeting, Councilmember Robyn Grant proposed creating an ad hoc committee to further explore public safety concerns during major holidays and develop a comprehensive approach. Grant stated she was supporting the current initiative but hoped for an opportunity to bring together a group for "a comprehensive approach."
However, the council ultimately voted 4-3 against forming such a committee, with Councilmembers Michelle Barto, Joe Stapleton, and Grant voting in favor of its creation. Councilmember Blom opposed the committee, calling the proposal "redundant" and suggesting it would "rehash the same ideas."
Newport Beach currently utilizes two designated “safety enhancement zones” in Corona Del Mar and on the Balboa Peninsula. During specified times, including spring break and the holiday weekends mentioned, fines for infractions within these zones are tripled.
