Phoenix, AZ Public Conduct: Aggressive Panhandling (2026)
Key Facts
- Aggressive manner
- Touching, blocking, following, threats
- Bank/ATM buffer
- 15 feet
- Bus stop buffer
- 10 feet
- Vocal solicitation ban
- Sunset to sunrise
- Penalty
- Class 1 misdemeanor
Summary
Phoenix bans aggressive solicitation, soliciting within 15 feet of banks or ATMs, on transit, or vocal solicitation after sunset.
It shall be unlawful for any person to solicit any money or other thing of value, or to solicit the sale of goods or services: 1. In an aggressive manner in a public area. 2. Within fifteen feet of any entrance or exit of any bank or within fifteen feet of any automated teller machine. 3. In any public transportation vehicle or from persons waiting within ten feet of a sign designating a bus stop. 4. In a vocal manner in a public area between sunset and sunrise.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-7524, passed June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 23-7 makes it unlawful to solicit money in an 'aggressive manner': touching without consent, blocking someone's path, following after a refusal, or using threatening language within 10 feet. It also bans soliciting within 15 feet of any bank entrance or ATM, on any public transportation vehicle or within 10 feet of a bus stop sign, and vocal solicitation in public between sunset and sunrise (silent solicitation, busking, or street performance with a sign is still allowed). Violations are a Class 1 misdemeanor and the court may add community service.
Violations & Fines
Class 1 misdemeanor; court may order community service on top of other penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is silent panhandling with a sign illegal in Phoenix after dark?
How close can someone panhandle to an ATM in Phoenix?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
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