The San Carlos Apache Tribe has adopted new public safety ordinances designed to help prevent violence at large gatherings, protect minors, and create safer community events throughout the Reservation. The measures were approved by the San Carlos Council through Resolution No. JUN-26-142 and will take effect following the implementation period outlined in the ordinance.

The ordinances were developed in response to recent tragic incidents involving large residential gatherings, including the heartbreaking loss of a young San Carlos Apache Tribal member. These new laws are intended to strengthen public safety while helping event organizers, families, and community members work together to create safe environments for everyone.

What’s Included in the New Ordinance?

The resolution enacts three key public safety measures, collectively known as Dezirae’s Law:

  • Unruly Gatherings & Special Events Ordinance
  • Minors Curfew Ordinance
  • Special Event Permit Regulations

Key Highlights

Special Event Permits

A Special Event Permit is required for certain gatherings of more than 75 people held on the Reservation. The permit process is designed to improve coordination between event organizers and public safety agencies so that appropriate planning can take place before large events occur.

Community Safety Standards

The ordinance establishes minimum safety requirements for large gatherings, including provisions related to:

  • Event security
  • Emergency access
  • Parking and traffic management
  • Crowd capacity
  • Event hours
  • Public safety coordination

Alcohol, Drugs, and Firearms

The ordinance includes provisions intended to reduce risks at large gatherings by:

  • Prohibiting firearms at covered events (with limited law enforcement exceptions)
  • Restricting alcohol and controlled substances
  • Holding event hosts responsible for maintaining a safe environment
  • Providing additional protections for minors

Curfew for Minors

The updated ordinance continues to reinforce parental involvement by establishing curfew requirements for minors:

  • 9:00 p.m. on school nights
  • 10:00 p.m. on weekends and non-school nights, unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or otherwise meeting one of the ordinance’s listed exceptions.

A Community-Focused Approach

The purpose of these ordinances is to help prevent future tragedies while supporting safe community celebrations across the Reservation. By establishing clear expectations for large gatherings and improving coordination between event organizers and public safety personnel, the Tribe hopes to create safer environments for families, youth, and visitors alike.

Chairman Terry Rambler and the San Carlos Council remain committed to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Tribal members while supporting community events that bring people together responsibly.

Read the Full Ordinance

This blog provides a general overview of the new ordinances and is not a substitute for the official legal document.

To review the complete ordinance, including permit requirements, exemptions, enforcement provisions, and implementation details, please click the button below to read the full text.