Bringing produce from California through Arizona?

Question

Is there a checkpoint for those entering AZ from CA where they will ask about produce? I’ll be going to a farm market before heading east. It looks like they have gotten rid of these checkpoints but I can’t tell for sure.

Answer

Yes, Arizona has historically had agricultural inspection checkpoints on major highways entering the state from California to prevent pests and diseases from spreading, particularly citrus pests and fruit flies. However, the status of these checkpoints can change, and some have been reduced or removed in recent years.

As of the most recent information, there are no permanent staffed inspection stations requiring you to stop for all vehicles entering Arizona from California, but occasional mobile or temporary inspections can still occur, especially for commercial vehicles.

For travelers bringing produce for personal use, here’s what you should know:

Allowed items: Most common fruits and vegetables that are commercially packaged and from recognized sources are typically allowed. Homegrown or uncertified produce may be subject to inspection or confiscation.
Prohibited items: Certain high-risk items, such as citrus, tomatoes, peppers, and some stone fruits, can be restricted if they’re known carriers of pests like the Mediterranean fruit fly.
Packaging: Keep your produce in sealed, clean containers or bags and be ready to declare them if asked.

Tips to ensure a smooth trip:

Check the Arizona Department of Agriculture website for the latest rules and updates on agricultural inspections before you travel.
If you are carrying high-risk produce, consider using certified stores or commercial packaging, which is less likely to be flagged.
Keep your receipt or proof of purchase handy; sometimes inspectors may request it to verify the source of produce.
Plan for a possible brief stop if a mobile inspection team is active, especially on major highways like I-10 and I-8.

In short, while the permanent checkpoints are mostly gone, it’s still wise to know the rules, declare your produce if asked, and avoid high-risk or uncertified items to prevent issues while crossing into Arizona.

Bringing produce from California through Arizona?

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