Proposed Fee Adjustments for Maricopa County Parks
The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department has put forward some modest changes to user fees in response to growing demand and rising operating costs.
Funding for the Parks
Daily operations in the park, such as utilities, wildfire management, habitat protection, facility upkeep, staffing, and trail care, are mainly funded by user fees. These fees are crucial for maintaining a safe, clean, and accessible park environment.
What Changes Are Being Proposed?
The department aims to adjust its rates to be in line with those of other large park systems. This move is designed to help conserve natural resources, enhance visitors’ experiences, and ensure that the park system can adapt to community needs.
Jennifer Waller, the director of Maricopa County Parks and Recreation, expressed gratitude for the board’s support on various projects and improvements. “However, recent evaluations of costs and revenues indicate that the current fee structure isn’t sufficient to cover vital services and upkeep, potentially jeopardizing the quality and sustainability of the park,” she stated.
A proposed fee schedule is set to be rolled out gradually over the next three years.
The staff recognizes that fee increases are generally unpopular and that changes can be challenging. Still, they are focused on keeping options as affordable as possible. Although the prices for annual passes might rise, discounts will continue to be available for seniors and disabled veterans to ensure accessibility. Plus, all entries provide free access to an outdoor education program, with a special free admission day designated for Fall Selection Day.
The Supervisory Committee will meet on December 10th, 2025, for anyone who wishes to provide feedback on the proposed fee schedule. The meeting will take place at the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Auditor, 85003, located at 301 W. Jefferson, Phoenix, Arizona. If approved, the first phase of the new fee schedule is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
You can review the proposed fee changes and supporting documentation at www.maricopa.gov/parks/fees. Feedback can be submitted through www.surveymonkey.com/r/2025feeadjustmentfeedback. The public comment period will remain open for 30 days. For additional information regarding Maricopa County’s Regional Parks System, visit www.maricopa.gov/parks.
