Helping make Tempe’s nightlife safer

On March 4, 2026, Tempe City Council approved a new ordinance aimed at preventing drink spiking and helping people feel safer when enjoying Tempe’s nightlife.

Drink spiking, when alcohol or drugs are added to someone’s drink without their knowledge, can happen in busy social settings. This ordinance focuses on simple steps that increase awareness and give patrons access to tools that can help them protect themselves.

Tempe is the first city in Arizona to adopt this type of safety measure. The ordinance grew out of the work of the Drink Spiking Education and Prevention Council Subcommittee, led by Councilmember Randy Keating with Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid and Councilmember Berdetta Hodge.

The City is now working with local businesses and community partners to build out the program, with the goal of launching Tempe Safe Bars in August 2026.

What the ordinance requires

Under the new ordinance, late-night establishments that serve alcohol must take a few basic steps to help prevent drink spiking:

Drink spiking test kits available
Patrons can request a drink spiking test kit from the establishment. Businesses may sell the kits at cost with a small markup.

Clear signage
Establishments must post signage informing patrons that safety tools, including test kits, are available.

Fresh, non-expired kits
Any test kits offered must be within their expiration date.

These steps help ensure that people know what safety tools are available and can access them if needed.

Going above and beyond

The ordinance also creates an optional certification program for bars and restaurants that choose to take additional steps to prevent drink spiking.

Participating establishments may choose to provide additional safety tools or staff training as part of the program. Businesses that participate may be recognized by the City for their commitment to customer safety and may qualify for discounted taxes.