Alaska Disorderly Conduct Laws

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016

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Laws regarding disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace are common throughout all 50 states. They are usually enacted for the purpose of protecting the health, safety, and welfare of citizens in public places. However, Alaska has several offenses where disorderly conduct can occur in a private place as well. This is a quick summary of disorderly conduct laws in Alaska.

Disorderly Conduct Laws In Alaska

Alaska's disorderly conduct laws encompass offenses from unreasonably loud noises intended to disturb the peace to the exposure of one's buttock to an unsuspecting person on the street. Some offenses, like engaging in a fight, can occur in private as well as public places. All disorderly conduct offenses are considered Class B Misdemeanors in the state.

The following tables outlines the specifics of Alaska's disorderly conduct law.

Code Sections

Alaska Stat. § 11.61.110
What's Prohibited?
  • Making "unreasonably loud noise" with the intent to disturb the peace after being told that you are having this effect.
  • Refusing to comply with a lawful order of a peace officer to disperse after a crime.
  • Refusing to comply with a law officer's request to leave a premises where you were not invited nor a right to possession.
  • Fighting or challenging another person to a fight in either private or in public. (Does not apply to self defense)
  • Recklessly creating a hazardous condition for another through an act that has no legal justification or excuse.
  • Intentionally exposing your buttocks or anus to another with complete disregard of its offensive nature.
Penalty

Disorderly conduct is a Class B Misdemeanor. The penalties include up to a $2,000 fine, up to 90 days in jail, or both.

Unreasonably Loud Noise

In order to determine whether a noise is unreasonably loud, the time and place, the nature and the purpose, and the reasonableness of the conduct will be examined. Noise, however, does not include any constitutionally protected speech.

If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, or would like legal assistance regarding a public peace matter, you can contact an Alaska criminal defense attorney through FindLaw. Visit FindLaw's sections on Disorderly Conduct and Public Safety Violations for more articles and information on this topic.

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