Council establishes 2,000-foot child safety zone

Council establishes 2,000-foot child safety zone

Published on February 26, 2026

In an effort to further protect children from sexual abuse and predatory behavior, the City Council on Tuesday approved an ordinance establishing safety zones around areas where children commonly gather.

Under the ordinance, sex offenders with child victims cannot establish a permanent or temporary residence within 2,000 feet of a school, day-care facility, park, playground, public swimming pool, youth center, community center or public library.

The ordinance applies to anyone required to register as a sex offender in the state database who had a child victim.

The City Council aims to reduce opportunities for contact between registered sex offenders and children by restricting where offenders can reside in relation to areas where children commonly gather. The ordinance is not intended to impose additional punishment on sex offenders, but to protect children and prevent future victimization.

Violators are subject to a fine of up to $500 per day.

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