Bismarck’s Halloween Curfew: What Parents Need to Know

You may have already taken your kids to a few trunk-or-treats this year, but if you're like me, you might want to give them a classic, nostalgic trick-or-treating experience. If you plan to take or let your kids go door-to-door this year, keep Bismarck's city curfew in mind.

(Also Read: Pink Pumpkins For A Purpose Returns To Bismarck For 2026)

If your kids are going out on their own around the neighborhood, make sure they know these rules; you don't want them to stay out too late and get in trouble or startle any neighbors who have already called it a night.

Trick-or-Treating Rules For Kids Unaccompanied By Parents

The City of Bismarck doesn't have a curfew specific to trick-or-treating, but the general law states the following:

It is unlawful for persons under the age of sixteen years to loiter, idle, wander, stroll, play in or upon, or drive or ride about in a vehicle or be in or upon the public streets, highways, roads, alleys, or public buildings, places or grounds between the hours of 10:30 pm and 5:00 am

While 10:30 pm is awfully late for younger kids to be trick-or-treating, it's better to know.

It also outlines the rules for kids ages 16 and 17.

It is unlawful for persons sixteen years and seventeen years of age to loiter, idle, wander, stroll, play in or upon, or drive or ride about in a vehicle or be in or upon the public streets, highways, roads, alleys, or other public buildings, places or grounds between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.

When Does Bismarck's City Curfew Doesn't Apply

According to Bismarcknd.gov, this ordinance does not apply in 3 scenarios.

1) When a youth is accompanied by a parent or guardian who is out after their curfew time.

2) At a school, church, or similar organization-related event or activity beyond the curfew time.

3) Are on their way home within thirty minutes of the end of their work shift or the conclusion of a school, church, or similar organization event or activity.

I'm sure you're familiar with these rules and plan to finish trick-or-treating well before these times, but I wanted to give you a heads-up in case you didn't know. Have fun, get all the candy, and keep your family safe this Halloween.