Officials expand DUI enforcement and alcohol controls around 2026 WM Phoenix Open in Scottsdale

Heightened impaired-driving enforcement returns as Phoenix Open draws weeklong crowds

Public safety agencies in Arizona have expanded impaired-driving enforcement around the 2026 WM Phoenix Open, a weeklong PGA Tour stop at TPC Scottsdale running February 2–8, 2026. The stepped-up posture comes after recent tournaments produced higher volumes of alcohol-related incidents and crowd-management challenges, prompting both law enforcement and event organizers to refine operations.

Scottsdale Police have confirmed that officers will work alongside regional partners during tournament week, with a focus on identifying impaired drivers before they reach main roadways. The enforcement plan also includes visible patrols near event access routes and post-event traffic flows, reflecting concerns about the concentrated departures that follow peak attendance periods.

Multi-agency task force targets DUI risks tied to major events

Authorities have organized a multi-agency DUI task force involving more than 20 participating departments. The initiative is designed to increase the number of trained personnel available for DUI detection and traffic stops during high-demand windows, including evenings and weekend sessions when alcohol consumption is typically highest.

State-level traffic safety programs are also providing funding support for DUI and selective traffic enforcement efforts across Arizona in the federal fiscal year spanning October 2025 through September 2026. These programs are intended to bolster patrol capacity, operational support and specialized training used in impaired-driving enforcement.

Alcohol service, underage drinking and conduct enforcement remain central

Officials have emphasized measures aimed at preventing overserving, reducing underage drinking and responding to disruptive behavior inside the tournament footprint. Past Phoenix Open editions have seen significant alcohol volumes served over the course of the week, and law enforcement has linked that environment to elevated calls for service and arrests compared with typical periods in Scottsdale.

Enforcement inside the gates remains tied to Arizona law and event conduct rules. Police have stated that actions such as entering restricted areas, throwing objects or similar disruptions can result in ejection and potential criminal charges, depending on circumstances.

Transportation planning promoted to reduce DUI exposure

Organizers and public safety agencies continue to urge attendees to plan transportation in advance. Event logistics include free shuttle-linked parking options and designated rideshare pick-up and drop-off locations intended to move large volumes of spectators without relying on personal driving after alcohol consumption.

• Official free parking areas operate with shuttle service to tournament entry points on multiple days of the week.
• A designated rideshare lot is set aside for passenger drop-off and pick-up to reduce congestion near the course.
• Checkpoints and controlled access routes are used around tournament zones to manage traffic and restricted roadways.

Officials have reiterated a consistent message for tournament week: attendees who drink should arrange a sober ride and avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired.

The combination of expanded DUI task-force activity, reinforced inside-the-gates conduct enforcement and transportation management reflects a broader effort to keep the tournament’s high-energy atmosphere compatible with public safety expectations in and around Scottsdale.