ADEQ Issues Ozone High Pollution Advisory for Maricopa County

Alert on High Ozone Levels in Maricopa County

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced an Ozone High Pollution Advisory for Maricopa County, set for August 27 and 28, 2026. This advisory comes as a result of anticipated high ozone levels, expected to surpass federal health standards.

Ozone at ground level forms when pollutants from vehicles, gasoline, diesel equipment, and industrial processes interact with sunlight. This type of pollution is more common during the warmer months of spring and summer.

Ground-level ozone poses significant health risks, especially to sensitive groups such as children, older adults, and individuals with existing respiratory conditions like asthma. The public is advised to minimize outdoor activities during the advisory period.

Recommendations to Mitigate Ozone Pollution

ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) urge residents and businesses to adopt measures to help reduce ozone levels:

Encourage telecommuting to decrease road traffic.

Opt for carpooling, vanpooling, or public transportation.

Avoid long waits in drive-thru lines; park and go inside instead.

Choose biking or walking for short commutes.

Sweep outdoor areas instead of using leaf blowers.

Refuel vehicles during cooler evening hours.

Use low-VOC or water-based products for painting and finishing.

Postpone painting projects until after the advisory period.

Ensure that all containers of chemicals are sealed to prevent vapor leaks.

For more information, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

Restrictions During High Pollution Advisory

The advisory includes specific restrictions to curtail pollution:

Prohibition on wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits within Maricopa County.

Government employees and contractors are banned from using leaf blowers. Residents are also encouraged to refrain from using them.

Refrain from using off-road vehicles.

Background Information

High Pollution Advisory (HPA): A public notification about an anticipated exceedance of federal air pollutant standards.

Ozone: A pollutant formed through a chemical interaction between sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Contact Information

For media inquiries in both English and Spanish, contact Ari Halpert at:

Cell: 602-501-1266 | Desk: 602-506-6713

Email: ari.halpert@maricopa.gov

About Maricopa County Air Quality Department

The mission of MCAQD is to enhance the air quality in Maricopa County, ensuring a healthy environment for residents and visitors. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, the department adheres to standards set by the Clean Air Act. For further resources, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.