Fort Worth City Council approves safety zones to protect children by restricting offender residency

Fort Worth, Texas – In a move designed to strengthen protections for young residents, the Fort Worth City Council on Tuesday approved a new ordinance creating safety zones around places where children commonly gather. The measure is intended to reduce the risk of contact between registered sex offenders and minors while reinforcing community safety standards.

The ordinance establishes clear residency restrictions for certain offenders and reflects the council’s broader effort to prevent abuse and protect vulnerable populations.

Safety zones established around child-focused areas

Under the new rule, sex offenders whose crimes involved child victims are prohibited from establishing either permanent or temporary residences within 2,000 feet of locations where children regularly gather. These areas include schools, day-care facilities, parks, playgrounds, public swimming pools, youth centers, community centers, and public libraries.

The restriction applies to any individual required to register as a sex offender in the state database whose offense involved a child victim. By setting a defined distance requirement, officials aim to create buffer zones that limit proximity between offenders and environments frequented by minors.

City leaders emphasized that the ordinance is focused on prevention rather than punishment. The goal is to reduce opportunities for harmful contact and to provide families with greater peace of mind when children visit parks, attend school, or participate in community programs.

The council noted that safety zones help establish consistent guidelines while supporting law enforcement and community monitoring efforts. By clearly defining where restricted individuals may reside, the ordinance seeks to strengthen oversight and enhance neighborhood awareness.

Violations of the ordinance carry financial penalties. Anyone found residing within the restricted zones in violation of the rule may face fines of up to $500 per day. Officials say the penalty structure is intended to ensure compliance and reinforce the seriousness of the restrictions.

Supporters of the measure argue that limiting proximity between offenders and child-centered spaces is an important step toward preventing future victimization. They also stress that the ordinance is not designed to add additional punishment but to prioritize public safety and reduce potential risk.

With the ordinance now approved, city officials plan to coordinate with law enforcement and community agencies to ensure awareness and enforcement. Leaders say the measure reflects an ongoing commitment to safeguarding children and maintaining safe public spaces where families can gather without fear.