A new city ordinance bans people from standing or remaining on most traffic medians in Scottsdale. The measure is designed to reduce risks for both pedestrians and drivers by limiting unsafe pedestrian behaviors within higher speed roadways.

"This ordinance is about protecting lives," said Interim City Attorney Luis Santaella. "It addresses a growing safety concern by ensuring that medians are used only for their intended purpose — safe crossing — not as gathering points or platforms for other activities."

The Scottsdale City Council approved Ordinance No. 4684 on Aug. 26; it goes into effect Sept. 25.

Key provisions

Prohibited conduct:

Standing or remaining on traffic medians along roadways with posted speed limits of 30 mph or higher is prohibited, except when briefly using a median as a refuge while crossing at a signalized intersection. Remaining through two consecutive crossing opportunities is considered evidence of a violation.

Definition:

A traffic median includes any paved or unpaved, marked or unmarked, landscaped or un-landscaped area that separates lanes of traffic.

Exemptions:

The ordinance does not apply to law enforcement, fire, and rescue personnel; government employees or contractors performing official duties; or individuals conducting lawful inspection, construction, maintenance, or other authorized services.

Penalty:

Violations are classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor.

"Public safety is our top priority," said Scottsdale Police Chief Joe LeDuc. "This ordinance gives us a clear framework to address unsafe behavior in medians and helps ensure that our roadways remain safe for everyone."

Details about the ordinance are included in the Aug. 26 City Council action report (PDF).