New York State Comments On These Trick-or-Treat Time Laws

The best part of summer is just about to begin here in New York State. County fair season is here, and the Great New York State Fair kicks off in just a few days. While we’re enjoying beautiful summer weather and checking off back-to-school shopping lists, it’s also the perfect time to start looking ahead to everything that makes fall in New York so special.

From County Fairs to Fall Fun in New York

How has your summer been?

Our family has been incredibly busy. It feels like we’ve barely had time for anything that isn’t on a Little League baseball field or a lacrosse field. Summer flies by when you have kids, especially when they’re involved in so many activities. Add in family reunions, graduation parties, concerts, vacations, and everything else packed into the season, and it’s gone before you know it.

Read more: These Showers Are Banned in New York State

I’ve said for years that the best stretch of the year in New York begins on August 1 and lasts all the way through New Year’s Eve. Between county fairs, football season, apple picking, fall foliage, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the holidays, there’s just something special about this time of year.

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Are There New Trick-or-Treat Laws in New York State?

As we start thinking about pumpkin spice, Halloween decorations, and costume shopping, I began wondering whether anything has changed when it comes to trick-or-treating in New York State.

It seems like every year there are questions about the rules. Is New York State changing the laws? Is there an official statewide trick-or-treat time? Are there new regulations that parents should know before sending their kids door-to-door for candy?

There are already rules regarding certain types of Halloween costumes that may or may not be allowed in schools, but many families also wonder whether there is a statewide trick-or-treat schedule.

Does New York State Have Official Trick-or-Treat Times?

The answer is no.

According to most reports, there is no statewide New York law that establishes official trick-or-treat hours. Instead, the designated times are typically determined by your local city, town, village, or municipality.

If you’re planning to take the kids trick-or-treating this Halloween, it’s always a good idea to check with your local government or community officials for the recommended hours in your area.

That’s also helpful for homeowners handing out candy. Knowing the scheduled trick-or-treat hours helps everyone prepare for when the neighborhood ghosts, superheroes, and princesses will start ringing the doorbell.

Halloween Safety Is Still the Priority

While New York State doesn’t set official trick-or-treat hours, safety remains the top priority.

Parents should make sure costumes fit properly to help prevent trips and falls, avoid masks or accessories that limit vision or breathing, and carry flashlights or reflective items if they’ll be walking after dark. Homeowners can also help by keeping sidewalks and walkways well-lit and free of obstacles.

"Purchase or make costumes that are light-colored, bright and clearly visible to motorists. Dark-colored costumes are hard to see at night. Costumes should also have adequate ventilation, have eye holes large enough to allow full vision and should not limit hearing".

Fall Is Almost Here in Western New York

It may seem a little early to be talking about Halloween when it’s only August, but before long Halloween stores will begin opening, pumpkins will appear on front porches, and fall decorations will be everywhere.

Here in Western New York, that usually means a fun mix of Buffalo Bills decorations alongside ghosts, pumpkins, and skeletons in front yards across the region.

We’re officially turning the corner toward back-to-school season and everything that comes with autumn. I’ll admit I’m excited for what’s ahead, even though there’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy, and we haven’t even taken our first ride at the county fair.