Arizona Dog Poop Laws by County
In Arizona, dog owners are expected to be responsible not only for their pet’s health but also for their pet’s impact on the environment and community. That includes cleaning up dog poop. While state law sets basic animal care standards, most dog waste rules are enforced at the city or county level. This guide breaks it down by county so you know what to expect where you live or visit.
Do You Have to Pick Up Dog Poop in Arizona?
Yes, in most Arizona counties and cities, it’s illegal to leave your dog’s waste on public or private property you don’t own. You must pick it up immediately and dispose of it properly. Failing to do so can result in fines, citations, or complaints from neighbors.
Maricopa County (Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa)
Maricopa County includes Arizona’s largest cities. Cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale have very clear dog waste laws. For example:
- Phoenix: City code requires dog owners to pick up poop in public areas. You can be fined if caught leaving it behind.
- Scottsdale: Public parks post signs reminding owners to clean up after pets. Violators may be fined up to $250.
- Mesa: Pet waste must be removed immediately or you could be cited under public nuisance rules.
In addition to legal risks, not picking up after your dog can make you unpopular with neighbors and damage community trust.
Pima County (Tucson)
Tucson enforces strict pet waste rules under city code 4-30. It states that dog owners must remove their dog’s feces from public places and dispose of it in a sanitary manner. If you’re caught ignoring this rule, you may face a fine of $100 or more. Even apartment complexes and HOAs in Tucson often have their own added rules.
Yavapai County (Prescott)
Prescott, located in Yavapai County, has a dog waste ordinance that applies in public parks, trails, and sidewalks. City workers and rangers can issue fines for pet waste violations. Dog-friendly trails encourage visitors to pack waste bags and use designated bins.
Coconino County (Flagstaff)
Flagstaff enforces dog poop rules under its animal control ordinances. You must clean up dog waste in parks, schoolyards, and walkways. The city also requires dog owners to carry bags when walking their dogs. Violating the law can result in a citation or fine.
Pinal County
In Pinal County, cities like Casa Grande and Maricopa enforce dog waste laws through local city codes. Public nuisance ordinances apply if you leave waste on another person’s property or in public spaces. Residents are urged to be courteous and keep neighborhoods clean.
Mohave County
In cities like Kingman and Lake Havasu City, local laws require dog owners to clean up pet waste immediately. Public signs and community rules back up enforcement. Fines can be given, especially in busy parks and recreational areas.
Navajo and Apache Counties
In more rural areas like Show Low or Holbrook, specific dog poop laws may be less detailed. However, general health and sanitation rules still apply. Letting dog waste build up in a yard or public space can lead to complaints and citations under nuisance codes.
Gila County
In places like Payson, dog owners must remove pet waste from sidewalks and public areas. Although enforcement may not be as aggressive as in bigger cities, the laws are still in place and violators can face warnings or small fines.
Dog Poop Fines in Arizona
Fines for not picking up after your dog in Arizona can range from $25 to $250 depending on the city and whether it’s a first offense. In most cases, a first offense may come with a warning, but repeat offenses usually result in monetary penalties.
Private Property and HOAs
Many Homeowner Associations (HOAs) in Arizona have their own dog waste rules. These are often stricter than city laws and may include:
- Immediate removal of waste from shared lawns or pathways
- Mandatory use of pet waste stations
- Fines added to HOA dues for non-compliance
Even if you’re on your own property, letting waste pile up can lead to sanitation issues or code enforcement complaints.
Dog Parks and Trails
Dog-friendly areas across Arizona—like Tempe’s Papago Park or Tucson’s Reid Park—require all visitors to clean up after their pets. Waste stations are often provided, but it’s always smart to bring your own bags. Failing to clean up may get you banned from the park or fined by park rangers.
How Old Is Your Dog, Really?
As you walk your dog and clean up after them, have you ever wondered how old they are in human years? Use this dog age calculator to find out. It helps you understand your dog’s real age based on breed and size.
Get quick answers with this interactive dog age tool—perfect for planning your pet’s health needs.
Try the tool now and see your dog’s age in human years instantly. It’s fast, easy, and accurate.
Summary of Arizona Dog Poop Laws by County
| County | Main City | Dog Waste Law | Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maricopa | Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa | Yes | $100–$250 fines |
| Pima | Tucson | Yes | $100 or more |
| Yavapai | Prescott | Yes | Warnings or citations |
| Coconino | Flagstaff | Yes | Fines apply |
| Pinal | Casa Grande | Yes | Public nuisance fine |
| Mohave | Kingman | Yes | Local citation |
| Navajo/Apache | Show Low, Holbrook | General rules | Community enforcement |
| Gila | Payson | Yes | Fines possible |
Conclusion
No matter where you live in Arizona, cleaning up after your dog is part of being a responsible pet owner. From city sidewalks in Phoenix to trails in Flagstaff, the law expects you to carry a bag and use it. Don’t wait to get fined—do your part to keep your community clean.
And while you’re caring for your pet, take a moment to check your dog’s real age in human years. You might be surprised what you learn—and it could help you plan for their future health and wellness.