From Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22. For public safety, certain hiking trails are restricted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Medical Treatment and Food Distribution in Parks
Keeping City parks clean, safe and accessible for everyone.
New Proposed Ordinance
The City of Phoenix is considering implementing an ordinance that will establish guidelines and requirements for medical treatment and food distribution activities in City parks. We want your opinion on the proposed provisions before the ordinance is presented to the Phoenix City Council for adoption in May 2026.
Background
In December 2025, the Phoenix City Council ("Council") approved the Safe Medical Treatment in Parks Ordinance (G-7467, Sec. 23-45), which prohibited events designed to provide medical treatment or care to the public, the sale or exchange of syringes and needles, and the sale or distribution of harm reduction kits in City parks and mountain preserves, as defined by Chapter 24 of Phoenix City Code, unless sponsored or otherwise authorized by approval through established City processes. The ordinance was approved to go into effect on March 30, 2026.
On March 4, 2026, the Council approved a delayed effective date of the previously approved ordinance to June 1, 2026, to allow City staff the opportunity to conduct additional research and community and stakeholder engagement before returning to the Council with amendments to the ordinance. Any amendments to the ordinance will supersede those previously approved.
The amended ordinance will go before the Council for adoption on May 6, 2026.
Get Involved
There are two ways to get involved and share your opinion about the proposed ordinance:
#1: Complete the Survey: The Parks and Recreation Department will open a survey for you to share your feedback.
#2: Attend a Community Meeting: Participate in an upcoming community meeting, either virtually or in person, to learn more about the ordinance and share your ideas.
Community Survey Coming Soon!
The City of Phoenix is launching a community survey for input on the Medical Treatment and Food Distribution in Parks Ordinance. Check back here for a link to complete the survey.
Upcoming Community Meetings
Attend an in-person or virtual community meeting session to learn more about the proposed ordinance and share your input.
Apr 08
WHEN
Wednesday, April 08, 2026 6:00 PM - 7:30 PMApr 14
WHEN
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 6:00 PM - 7:30 PMApr 16
WHEN
Thursday, April 16, 2026 5:30 PM - 6:30 PMWHERE
Virtual Meeting: Link Available SoonIn-Person Event at Memorial Hall at Steele Indian School Park
Date & Time TBD