Arizona’s no trespassing sign rules require private landowners and lessees to post signs at every vehicle entrance, at every corner of the property or fence, and at least every quarter-mile along the rest of the boundary. Each sign must be at least 8 by 11 inches, printed in bold capital letters at least one inch tall, and must state which activities are prohibited.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
Where to Place the Signs
Placement is where most owners get compliance wrong. Signs must go in conspicuous locations at every vehicle entrance and at every corner of the property or fence line. Along the rest of the boundary, a sign must appear at least every quarter-mile.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
Between the corners and the entrances, you have an alternative. Instead of signs, you can mark posts with at least 100 square inches of orange paint, provided the paint is clearly visible from outside the property.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
What the Signs Must Say and Look Like
Each sign must measure at least 8 inches by 11 inches. The lettering must be bold, capitalized, and no shorter than one inch tall so it can be read from a reasonable distance.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
The wording must identify what is prohibited. You can use one or more of the following phrases:1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
- No trespassing
- No hunting
- No trapping
- No fishing
- No guiding
When a Violator Can Be Charged With Criminal Trespass
The exact wording on the sign controls whether a hunter or angler who enters can face a criminal trespassing charge. For that charge to apply based on signage alone, the sign must include the words “no trespassing.” A sign that says only “no hunting” or “no fishing” does not, by itself, support a criminal trespass charge.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
Without the “no trespassing” language, a person can still be charged if they refuse to leave after being asked by the owner or a peace officer, or if they knowingly disregard a reasonable warning that entry is prohibited.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304
Public Land Is Different
These rules cover private land. They generally do not let someone post state or federal land against hunting or fishing, even if that person holds a lease on the public parcel. To restrict those activities on public land, you must first get permission from the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.1Arizona Legislature. A.R.S. § 17-304