Apache Junction Police Department Enforcement on State Trust Land
News and image source: AJPD
The Apache Junction Police Department (AJPD), in partnership with the Arizona State Land Department, is taking proactive steps to protect and preserve State Trust Land west of Ironwood Drive between Guadalupe Road and Elliot Road.
Effective immediately, AJPD will begin enforcing trespassing laws in this area.
This enforcement effort is in response to ongoing concerns about unauthorized activities on State Trust Land, including the use of motorized vehicles and illegal camping. These activities pose risks to public safety, disrupt wildlife habitats, and violate state regulations (A.R.S. § 13-1502 and/or A.R.S. § 37-501) governing the responsible use of these lands.
Key Enforcement Details
- Location Affected: State Trust Land west of Ironwood Dr. between Guadalupe Rd. and Elliot Rd.
- First Offense: Individuals found trespassing without proper authorization (which includes a recreational permit issued by the Arizona State Land Department or a hunting license issued by the Arizona Game & Fish Department) will receive a written trespass warning.
- Repeat Offenses: Additional violations may result in citations or criminal charges.
- Prohibited Activities: Include, but are not limited to, trespass and any other unauthorized activities including operating motorized vehicles.
- Permitted Access:
- Individuals with valid Arizona hunting licenses may access the land on foot.
- All hunters must comply with Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations.
Chief Pooley of AJPD stated:
“We are committed to working with our state partners to protect public land and ensure it is used responsibly. Our goal is to educate the community first, but we will take enforcement action when necessary to preserve these lands for future generations.”
The City of Apache Junction encourages residents and visitors to respect these regulations and to learn more about the appropriate use of Arizona State Trust Lands by visiting https://land.az.gov.
For questions or concerns regarding this enforcement effort, please contact the Apache Junction Police Department at [email protected]
