Times, ages, and penalties for trick-or-treating in Hampton Roads—plus 2025 family events and safer alternatives than going house to house.
A quick local guide from Cardon Law. This is general information, not legal advice. If you have a specific question about a citation or charge, talk to a lawyer.
Quick Laws for each Hampton Roads City (2025)
Virginia Beach — Trick-or-treating is for children 12 and under and traditionally runs dusk to 8:00 p.m. (city guidance). Violations are handled as a Class 4 misdemeanor under local code. City of Virginia Beach+2Virginia Law+2
Norfolk — City code makes it a Class 4 misdemeanor to trick-or-treat after 8:00 p.m. or for anyone over 12 to trick-or-treat. (Parents/guardians may accompany younger children.)
Chesapeake — The ordinance sets the age limit at 14 and under and prohibits trick-or-treating after 8:00 p.m. (Class 4 misdemeanor).
Newport News — The city specifies 12 and under, dusk to 8:00 p.m. (Class 4 misdemeanor; parents may accompany). Newport News
Portsmouth — The code limits trick-or-treating to 12 and under, with set hours 5:00–8:00 p.m. (generally treated as a Class 3 misdemeanor if violated). Portsmouth VA+1
What do “Class 3” and “Class 4” mean?
In Virginia, Class 3 misdemeanors are fines up to $500; Class 4 misdemeanors are fines up to $250. Virginia Law
A note on enforcement
Local reporting has repeatedly said police don’t card kids on porches; these ordinances are primarily there for safety and to give officers a tool if there’s real mischief. Still, the laws exist—so know the rules. WTOP News
Safer, Family-Friendly Alternatives (Halloween 2025)
Virginia Beach
- Town & Treat at Town Center (Sat Oct 25, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.): trick-or-treating at participating businesses, characters, games. CBDA
- VB Parks & Rec seasonal events (October): city-hosted, family-forward festivities (various dates/locations). City of Virginia Beach
Norfolk
- Norfolk Police Department Trunk-or-Treat (Sun Oct 26, 5–7:30 p.m.). Norfolk
Portsmouth
- City Trunk-or-Treat (Sat Oct 25, 3–7 p.m.) at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion & Festival Park. Portsmouth Parks
Chesapeake
- Big Ugly Brewing Trunk-or-Treat (Sun Oct 26, 1–5 p.m.). Chesapeake
- CHKD + Chesapeake Parks Fall Festival (Sat Oct 18, 1–3:30 p.m.)—family activities. City of Chesapeake
Newport News
- Patrick Henry Mall events page (watch for their annual Halloween announcements). Patrick Henry Mall
Events can shift—always check the linked page the week of Halloween for any time or venue changes.
FAQ
What time does trick-or-treating start?
Most cities don’t set a start time; “dusk” to 8:00 p.m. is the common guidance (Portsmouth posts 5–8 p.m.). Check your neighborhood or HOA if they publish a start time. City of Virginia Beach+2Newport News+2
Can a parent wear a mask?
Newport News specifies that accompanying adults may not wear masks. Other cities don’t expressly say this, but use good judgment. Newport News
What about teens?
Age limits vary (most at 12, Chesapeake at 14). If your teen wants to participate, consider volunteering at a trunk-or-treat, handing out candy, or attending a supervised event listed above. 13 News Now+2Newport News+2
Are there special rules for people on the Sex Offender Registry?
Virginia does not have a blanket statewide Halloween ban; those under supervision often have restrictions, and separate laws limit presence on school property. Virginia State Police+1
Code & Reference Links (for your records)
- Virginia Beach: City guidance on age & hours; historical code reference to Prohibited Trick or Treat Activities. City of Virginia Beach+1
- Norfolk: City code summarized (Sec. 29-4: over 12 or after 8 p.m. = Class 4). 13 News Now
- Chesapeake: City law updated to 14 and under; after 8 p.m. = Class 4. 13 News Now+1
- Newport News: Code Sec. 28-5; dusk–8 p.m., 12 & under. Newport News
- Portsmouth: Hours 5–8 p.m., 12 & under; violations treated as Class 3. Portsmouth VA+1
- Virginia: Misdemeanor classifications & fines. Virginia Law
Safety Tips (fast)
- Bright costumes/reflective tape; carry lights.
- Stay on sidewalks; cross at corners; drivers—go slow in neighborhoods and lots.
- Only visit well-lit homes; inspect candy. (City and state pages above have additional guidance.)
Questions about a citation or charge?
Cardon Law can explain the ordinance, next steps, and options in your specific city.
Free consultation: (757) 306-9060 • 24/7 direct to David A. Cardon: (757) 620-3283
