Volunteer Program - Adopt a Highway
Volunteer Program - Adopt a Highway
The Arizona Adopt a Highway program was launched in 1988 during Rose Mofford’s Governorship, and initiated by the Arizona Department of Transportation. One hundred organizations joined the program within the first two years, cleaning up litter along 200 miles of freeway.
Today, more than 7,600 individual volunteers pick up litter along 2,000 miles of Arizona's highways. Arizona needs your help to keep this program going strong.
Who can adopt?
Everyone can take pride in our beautiful state and adopt a highway. Participants must be at least 12 years of age, and those 12-18 must also be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Individuals, families, youth organizations
- Businesses (large and small)
- Civic and non-profit organizations
- Religious groups, schools, fraternities and sororities
- Community Groups
- Litter removal significantly enhances the aesthetic appeal of highways, making them more inviting for residents and visitors.
- Participating in the Adopt a Highway program can boost your group's visibility and demonstrate your commitment to community service.
- Removing litter helps keep animals safe by reducing discarded trash and scents that may attract them to roadways.
- Adopt a Highway projects are a great way for groups, organizations, or families to spend time together while working toward a common goal.
- Volunteer efforts have a direct and measurable impact, resulting in cleaner roads and a more positive environment for everyone.
- Adoptable segments are typically a one-mile stretch of highway between mile markers.
- Adopt a Highway volunteer adoption permits are for two years and may be renewed prior to the expiration date.
Apply
- Review the AZ511.gov map and select a highway. Note the mile markers at the preferred adoption location. To reveal mile markers click on the map legend and check the box next to 'Mile Markers. Zoom into the map if needed to see the mile markers.
- Read and complete the Volunteer Program Application using the mile markers you've identified.
- Email the completed application to the ADOT District nearest the adoption location. To view the list of Districts visit Contact Adopt a Highway.
Before Cleanup
- Notify the district contact one week prior to each cleanup and pick up litter one or more times per year.
- All volunteers must read the safety briefing and watch a safety video prior to each cleanup.
After Cleanup
- Return the Volunteer Registration Form to ADOT after each cleanup event. Be sure the form is signed by all participating volunteers.
- Record litter cleanup activity after each event at Report Litter Pickup.
Volunteer Signs
Volunteer recognition signs are two-panel, single-post signs provided by ADOT. The ADOT logo is 24x12 inches and sits in a separate panel above the recognition panel. The recognition panel contains either three or four lines with eleven three inch characters in uppercase and lowercase unless otherwise noted.
