This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change — verify current rules with your state DOT or a licensed attorney before relying on this for any legal matter. Read full disclaimer.
The rule
There is no statewide rule on sidewalk cycling — it is left to cities and counties in Arizona. Arizona Revised Statutes Title 28, Chapter 3, Article 11 (Bicycles) is silent on sidewalk riding; A.R.S. § 28-627 reserves the authority to regulate bicycles on sidewalks to local jurisdictions. Phoenix City Code § 36-76.02 prohibits riding a bicycle on a sidewalk in any business district; Tucson Code § 20-146 prohibits sidewalk riding by anyone aged 10 or older in the central downtown area; Tempe and Scottsdale each maintain similar downtown carve-outs.
What this means in practice
Because Arizona doesn't set a statewide rule, the answer is "it depends on the city." Central business districts, downtown cores, and school zones are the most commonly restricted areas. Always check the local municipal code before you ride on a sidewalk.