Knott's Berry Farm Reinstates Chaperone Policy Saturday

BUENA PARK, CA — Knott's Berry Farm announced its plans to reinstate its chaperone policy after it was temporarily lifted over the winter, park officials announced Thursday.

The policy was originally implemented last summer due to increasing teen fights at the theme park, according to a previous Patch report.

Under the chaperone policy, park guests who are under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older to be admitted or remain inside the theme park after 4 p.m.

"Over the past two years, there have been increasing incidents of unruly and inappropriate behavior across our industry and at other major entertainment venues," the Orange County theme park said on its website. "We believe these changes will help ensure that Knott's Berry Farm and Soak City Waterpark continue to have a positive atmosphere where generations of families and friends can gather for a day of safe, fun, and good food."

The chaperone must show park staff a valid government-issued photo identification with date of birth at ticket entry, the park said. One chaperone may travel with no more than 10 guests ages 15 or younger.

The policy was originally enacted last year in response to multiple fights breaking out at the theme park, including brawls that prompted officials to close park gates three hours early on a Saturday, KTLA5 reported.