Residency Restrictions FAQs

Does the Adam Walsh Act place restrictions on where sex offenders can live, work, go to school or loiter?

No. Residency restrictions and safety zones are NOT part of the Adam Walsh Act. All such restrictions are the result of jurisdictional or local legislation, not federal law or the Adam Walsh Act. Numerous jurisdictions and local entities do currently restrict sex offenders from living by or being present within certain areas (e.g., within a certain distance of schools, parks or playgrounds). All inquiries regarding residency restrictions or safety zones are a matter to be addressed at the jurisdictional and local level.