Orem's parks and public schools are now officially off limits to gang members for use as hangouts.

The City Council unanimously approved a resolution establishing the parks and school grounds as non-loitering zones for gang members. Any gang members found in those areas can be ordered to leave by police, and cited if they return within an eight-hour period.

Violators will be charged with a class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Public Safety Director Mike Larsen, in a report to the council, said there are 300 known gang members in the city. The resolution is an effort by the city to curb gang crime, including graffiti.

The resolution was first put before the council Aug. 11, but was tabled in order to obtain comments from the Alpine School District's board. The school board supported the Orem City Council's new ordinance.