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The City of Wildwood has adopted a new ordinance establishing overnight closure hours for its boardwalk. Officials say the move aims to improve safety and quality of life while maintaining a welcoming environment for visitors as well as businesses.

The city first introduced the ordinance April 8. It formally adopted the measure during the April 22 meeting of the City of Wildwood Board of Commissioners.

The measure mandates the Wildwood Boardwalk close to the public daily from 1–5 a.m. year-round. It provides for limited exceptions for emergency personnel, authorized workers and approved activities. The new rules take effect May 13, with enforcement by the Wildwood Police Department.

Signage will also be posted along the boardwalk.

Officials emphasized the change applies only to Wildwood’s portion of the boardwalk. It will not affect neighboring sections in North Wildwood or Wildwood Crest.

City leaders said the change intends to curb late-night issues while still supporting local businesses.

“These hours are designed to limit late-night crowds and support a welcoming friendly atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the best of our Boardwalk,” said Steve Mikulski, deputy mayor and commissioner of public safety. “We fully support our Boardwalk businesses. This is not about limiting business activity, it’s about preventing loitering, large gatherings, and the types of behavior that tend to occur after hours.”