Phoenix, AZ Public Conduct: Loud Party Ordinance (2026)
Key Facts
- First incident cap
- $1,000
- Second incident cap
- $1,500
- Third+ incident cap
- $2,000
- Gathering threshold
- 5 or more people
- Hearing request deadline
- 10 days from notice
Summary
Phoenix charges party hosts for police response costs when officers find a threat to public peace, health, or safety: up to $2,000 per incident within a 12-month period.
Any person who is responsible for the party, gathering or event is liable for the reasonable costs of a response by the police to that incident... In no event shall a person's liability under this section for the costs of a response by the police exceed: 1. One thousand dollars for the first incident within a 12-month period. 2. One thousand five hundred dollars for the second incident within a 12-month period. 3. Two thousand dollars for the third and subsequent incident within a 12-month period.
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
Phoenix City Code § 2-22 lets police bill the host of a party, gathering, or large event for the cost of responding once an officer on scene finds a threat to public peace, health, safety, or general welfare: a gathering of five or more people causing excessive noise, traffic obstruction, underage drinking, fights, or litter qualifies. Liability is capped at $1,000 for a first incident in 12 months, $1,500 for a second, and $2,000 for the third and later. Hosts, property owners, and organizers are jointly liable, and can request a hearing before a City Manager-appointed hearing officer within ten days of the notice.
Violations & Fines
Officers issue a written cost notice on scene or by mail; unpaid costs become a collectible city debt, and failing to request a hearing within ten days waives any right to challenge the amount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is liable for the police response costs?
Can I avoid the charge by calling police myself?
How many people count as a 'party, gathering or event'?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
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