Community Concerns About Public Spaces

Our community holds deep empathy for all neighbors experiencing housing instability or other forms of vulnerability. At the same time, we must uphold the principle that shared public spaces—our sidewalks, parks, and town centers—must remain clean, accessible, and safe for everyone.

While we seek compassionate solutions, the reality is that overbearing or dominating public encampments and assemblies severely limit the rights of all residents to use these spaces, creating security concerns and hindering the overall quality of community life.

• Residents are encouraged to promptly report suspected drug or alcohol use in public spaces to law enforcement. Phoenix Police Officers are trained and equipped to offer services like housing support to individuals prior to taking enforcement action for camping or loitering.

• Encampments or public camping should be reported to PHX C.A.R.E.S., part of the City of Phoenix Office of Homeless Solutions, using the contact information on this page. Care teams will be dispatched to offer services and to assist individuals in finding appropriate shelter.

• Violations of the City of Phoenix Parks & Recreation Code of Conduct should be reported to the Code of Conduct Hotline to ensure our parks remain accessible and safe for everyone.