Is swimming allowed in Tempe Town Lake? Here's what to know
Though it may seem enticing, especially as Arizona enters the sweltering summer months, recreational swimming in Tempe Town Lake is not permitted.
The lake has seen its fair share of drowning incidents, most notably in the death of Sean Bickings, who drowned in the Tempe waters in May 2022.
Two adults also jumped into Tempe Town Lake from the Mill Avenue Bridge. One of the jumpers died after they failed to resurface.
Why swimming isn't allowed in Tempe Town Lake?
"Tempe Town Lake is regulated by Maricopa County as an artificial body of water, which shares some of the same regulations as swimming pools," Tempe public information officer Savannah Harrelson told The Arizona Republic.
This means that in order for recreational swimming to take place, the city would need to have lifeguards present as well as the lake passing certain water quality tests.
"Town Lake has never been operated with recreational swimming allowed," Harrelson said.
More: Here's how to rent boats at Tempe Town Lake
What are the consequences?
Swimming unsanctioned in Tempe Town Lake can run violators a pretty penny. Under Tempe city code citations and fines can be as much as $1,000.
When can you swim in Tempe Town Lake?
Just because you can't take a leisurely dip in Tempe Town Lake doesn't mean swimming is completely off limits. To do so, it's got to be for a special reason, literally.
"Swimming is allowed during permitted special events, such as triathlons. These are only allowed through the Tempe special events process and after results from regulated water tests are verified," Harrelson said.
More information on how to submit special event applications can be found on Tempe's website.
Those looking to get their fix of water-related activities can rent one of the many boating or paddle board options offered or even take boating classes.
Water safety is important to remember during the summer months. Adults can be at risk in lakes or open water when impaired, swimming alone, or unaware of how to swim.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Why can't I swim in Tempe Town Lake?
