For a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs)
visit here.
To read a signed copy of the ordinance,
visit here.
Ordinance Overview (as passed April 22)
Multiple studies have shown motorists operating portable communication
devices such as cell phones and/or texting while driving are
statistically more likely to become involved in a traffic accident. To
promote and encourage safety and decrease distracted driving, the County
ordinance states:
“A person shall not drive a motor vehicle
while using a portable communications device to engage in a call unless
that device is configured to allow hand-free listening and talking, and
is used exclusively in that manner while driving. Texting and typing are
banned while operating a motor vehicle.”
Exemptions from the ordinance include:
- The driver uses a hands-free mobile device.
- The
purpose of the call is to communicate an emergency to a police or fire
department, a hospital or physician’s office, or an ambulance corps.
- Operating an authorized law enforcement or emergency vehicle in the performance of official duties.
- A
person who holds a valid amateur radio operator license issued by or
any license issued by the Federal Communications Commission or the
driver uses a two-way radio, such as a CB radio.
- A person is driving a motor vehicle on private property.
- A
driver has pulled off of the traveled portion of the roadway in a safe
and legal location and placed the vehicle in park in order to operate a
handheld portable communications device.
- Persons driving a
school bus or transit vehicle that is subject to Arizona Revised
Statutes or U.S. Department of Transportation regulations.
Penalties
A person found to be in violation of this ordinance and not involved in
a motor vehicle crash is subject to a civil penalty of $100 plus any
other penalty assessment authorized by law. A driver found in violation
of the ordinance and involved in a collision is subject to a $250 fine
and any other penalty assessments authorized by law.