Target shoppers in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C., may be surprised by a sign greeting them at the door.
A poster with the Target logo states, “All guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult at this Target store.”
Target did not respond to multiple requests for information regarding the policy.
![](https://www.retaildive.com/user_media/diveimage/Target_Under_18.jpg)
The Target at this location is part of DC USA, a multi-story real estate development that opened in 2008 and includes other retailers such as Burlington, Best Buy and Lidl. Additional signs with the DC USA logo are on the front door and posted throughout the retail complex stating the same policy — all visitors to the mall complex must be accompanied by an adult.
![](https://www.retaildive.com/user_media/diveimage/dcusa_cropped.jpg)
The Target at DC USA was the first in the District of Columbia and is a two-level, 180,000-square-foot store.
DC USA did not respond to questions regarding its under 18 policy. DC USA serves over 36,000 people within a 10-minute walk of the complex and is the “largest retail development in the District of Columbia,” according to the company’s website.
![](https://www.retaildive.com/user_media/diveimage/Target_ulta.jpg)
Additionally, this Target location contains an Ulta shop-in-shop. Multiple ways customers can potentially access the section have been roped off, only allowing one way of entry and exit. Many beauty products within the Ulta area are in locked cabinets.
Ulta has previously stated that it has placed fragrances in locked cabinets at its full line locations, resulting in improved sales as a result.
Other products are locked up at the Target location and require a store associate to gain access. Items include toothpaste, some skincare items and a section of men’s underwear and socks.
![](https://www.retaildive.com/user_media/diveimage/target_shelves_undies.jpg)