The Toms River Township Office of Emergency Management has officially declared a local emergency and reinstated a summer curfew for juveniles on the barrier island sections of the township, citing concerns over potential disorderly behavior and large “pop-up” gatherings during the upcoming summer season.

According to the declaration signed by Emergency Management Coordinator and Police Chief Guy Maire, and obtained by TLS, the curfew is intended to prevent a repeat of issues seen during previous summers, including vandalism, criminal mischief, unruly gatherings, and social media-organized parties that affected shore communities between 2020 and 2025.

Under the order, juveniles age 17 and under will be prohibited from being in public areas on the barrier island between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. The curfew took effect at 12:00 a.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, and will remain in place through 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

The curfew applies to the North Beach and Ortley Beach sections of Toms River.

Township officials stated the previous curfew measures were effective in helping preserve public order and safety during the summer months and said reinstating the restrictions this year is a precautionary step to avoid similar disturbances.

Several exceptions are included in the order, including juveniles accompanied by parents or guardians, traveling to or from work, attending organized activities, handling emergencies, or exercising constitutionally protected rights such as religious observance or free speech.

The declaration also outlines enforcement procedures. Juveniles found violating the curfew will first receive warnings and an opportunity to leave before being subject to a stationhouse adjustment. No juvenile delinquency charges or summonses will be issued under the order. However, parents, guardians, caretakers, or business operators who knowingly allow violations may face penalties under state emergency management laws.