Is Scalping Tickets Legal in Arizona After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

Yes, ticket scalping is legal in Arizona under specific conditions. State law permits resale at or above face value, but local ordinances in Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff impose venue-specific limits. The Arizona Attorney General’s 2023 guidance clarified that scalping is not inherently illegal unless it violates local anti-scalping statutes or involves fraudulent practices.


Key Regulations for Scalping Tickets in Arizona

  • Face Value Restrictions: Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2925 prohibits reselling tickets for more than 10% above face value unless the original seller consents in writing. This cap applies statewide, excluding transactions on secondary platforms like StubHub or Vivid Seats.
  • Local Ordinances: Cities such as Phoenix (City Code § 3-115) and Tucson (Municipal Code § 17-26.1) require scalpers to obtain a transient vendor license if operating near event venues. Flagstaff’s 2024 ordinance mandates a $500 annual permit for street scalping within 500 feet of a venue.
  • Venue-Specific Bans: Major venues like Chase Field (Phoenix) and Gila River Arena (Glendale) prohibit scalping on their premises entirely, as outlined in their 2025 event policies. Violations may result in ejection and confiscation of tickets under Arizona’s 2023 Venue Protection Act.