Section R12-8-119. Weapons

A.      The following definitions apply to this Section:

1.        “Improved recreation area” means a camping unit, road- way, amphitheater, boat launching ramp, developed pic- nic area, developed swimming beach, and any other area within a state park that is designated by the Director and reserved for an assembly or other temporary gathering of persons.

2.        “Prohibited  weapon”  means  a  firearm  as  defined  by

A.R.S. § 13-3101, including a BB or pellet gun, bow, or slingshot.

B.       A peace officer or private security guard employed by the holder of a park concession is authorized to carry a firearm in a state park if:

1.        The peace officer is certified under state law, or

2.        The holder of the park concession complies with A.R.S. § 32-2606(3) regarding private security guards.

C.      Unless authorized under subsection (B), a person shall not enter or remain in an improved recreation area while carrying a prohibited weapon after a reasonable request from a park ranger to remove it. A request to remove a prohibited weapon is reasonable if a park ranger believes that the person carrying the prohibited weapon poses a danger or threat to others law- fully present. If, after a reasonable request is made, a person carrying a prohibited weapon within an improved recreation area chooses to remain in the improved recreation area, the person shall place the weapon in the custody of a park ranger until the person leaves the improved recreation area.

D.      A firearm may be transported or stored in a vehicle on any state park area as allowed by A.R.S. § 13-3102(F).

E.       A hunter who holds a current license issued by the Arizona Game and Fish Department may carry a lawful hunting weapon in any state park area designated for hunting and may carry the hunting weapon through the state park to reach the state park area designated for hunting.

Historical Note

Adopted effective July 12, 1984 (Supp. 84-4). Amended by final rulemaking at 13 A.A.R. 1115, effective May 5, 2007 (Supp. 07-1).