Belize's Nightly Curfews: Understanding The Restrictions

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has lifted all public health measures at its land and sea entry points, including any curfew mandates. However, on June 25, 2024, the government of Belize declared a state of emergency in Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village due to high levels of crime. A nightly curfew is in place for minors under the age of 18 between 6 pm and 6 am.

Who does the curfew apply to?

The curfew in Belize applies to minors under the age of 18. It is in place between the hours of 6 pm and 6 am. The curfew is part of a wider state of emergency that was declared in several locations across Belize due to high levels of crime. During the state of emergency, security forces have the power to restrict freedom of movement, conduct searches and seizures, and detain persons of interest.

The state of emergency also places restrictions on the movement of citizens outside of curfew hours. Between 5 am and 8 pm, there should be no loitering, wandering, assembling, or other types of movement in any public place or road. Movement during these hours is limited to essential activities such as purchasing essential needs, attending medical appointments, and carrying out essential work.

What are the times of the curfew?

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has lifted all public health measures, including any curfew mandates. However, as of June 25, 2024, the government of Belize declared a state of emergency in Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village due to high levels of crime. A nightly curfew is in place for minors under the age of 18 between 6 pm and 6 am. During the state of emergency, security forces have the power to restrict freedom of movement, conduct searches and seizures, and detain persons of interest. It is recommended that individuals in the affected areas carry valid ID at all times and monitor local media for updates.

What are the reasons for the curfew?

On the 25th of June 2024, the Belize government declared a state of emergency in Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village due to high levels of crime. A nightly curfew is in place for minors under the age of 18 between 6 pm and 6 am. Security forces have been granted the power to restrict freedom of movement, conduct searches and seizures, and detain persons of interest. The government may also call on the Belize Defence Force soldiers to implement these emergency measures.

The primary reason for the curfew and the state of emergency is the high levels of violent crime in Belize, particularly in the aforementioned areas. Gang and drug-related violence, including murders and shootings, are common in Southside Belize City. Gang members often use weapons to resolve disputes, and clashes between gangs seeking to control territories for illegal activities occur frequently. The police capacity to respond to violent incidents is limited, and many crimes go unsolved.

Belize has one of the highest per capita murder rates in the world, and violent crime is a major concern not only in Belize City but also in other parts of the country, including Belmopan. Drug and human trafficking, organised crime, and street gang activity are prevalent throughout Belize. Violent incidents, including home break-ins and physical assaults, have also increased in frequency.

What are the penalties for breaking curfew?

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has lifted all public health measures, including any curfew mandates. However, as of June 25, 2024, the government of Belize declared a state of emergency in several locations due to high levels of crime, including Southside Belize City, Northside Victoria Street, and Roaring Creek Village. A nightly curfew is in place for minors under the age of 18 between 6 pm and 6 am in these areas.

During the state of emergency, security forces have been granted the power to restrict freedom of movement, conduct searches and seizures, and detain persons of interest. While the specific penalties for breaking curfew have not been outlined, it is important to follow the curfew rules and carry valid ID at all times to avoid potential legal consequences and ensure your safety.

It is recommended to monitor local media and government sources for the most up-to-date information on curfew restrictions and penalties.

What other restrictions are in place?

As of July 12, 2022, Belize has lifted all public health measures at its land and sea entry points. However, there are still some restrictions and requirements in place for travellers:

• Tourists are recommended to stay at certified gold standard hotels or vacation rentals.
• International tourists are required to purchase travel health insurance, which costs US$18 and covers up to $50,000 in COVID-19-related medical expenses and up to $2,000 for lodging expenses should a traveller need to quarantine in Belize.
• Unvaccinated travellers must provide a negative COVID-19 test result (either a Rapid Antigen Test taken within 48 hours before arrival or a PCR Test taken within 96 hours before arrival).
• Children under 5 years of age are exempt from providing a negative COVID-19 test result.

In addition to the above, there are some general safety and security concerns that travellers to Belize should be aware of:

• Gang violence is a significant concern, especially in Southside Belize City.
• Violent crime, including murder, is prevalent throughout the country.
• Drug and human trafficking, organised crime and street gang activity are common.
• There has been an increase in violent incidents against foreign nationals, including home break-ins and physical assaults.
• Criminal activity and violence are often higher in border areas, particularly around the border with Guatemala.
• Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, with criminals often targeting tourists, including at resorts.
• Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment, verbal abuse and sexual assault.
• 2SLGBTQI+ travellers may experience harassment and verbal or physical abuse.
• Demonstrations and large gatherings may occur and can turn violent.
• Coastal waters can be dangerous, with riptides being common.
• Rescue services may not meet international standards, and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.
• Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country, with accidents being common.
• Public transportation is generally unreliable and unsafe.

Frequently asked questions