By Lindsay Kerr, Public Information Officer for the Town of Oro Valley
Spring in Oro Valley brings cooler mornings, warm afternoons and vibrant desert blooms. It is the ideal season to explore our network of multi-use paths, enjoy golf at local courses and visit neighborhood parks. Our public works and parks teams work year-round to maintain roads, sidewalks, trails and green spaces. That dedication keeps our community safe and welcoming, but we rely on residents to help identify small issues before they become larger hazards.
Common Springtime Maintenance Issues
As plants awaken and traffic increases, spring can reveal:
- Accumulations of litter and debris along roadways, washes and trails
- Overgrown brush that impedes sight lines or encroaches on paths
- Potholes forming after winter rains
- Damaged or missing sidewalk panels
- Illicit dumping at lesser-used trailheads
Unchecked, these issues can pose safety risks for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Cleaning up dog waste and securing loose branches not only improves appearance but also reduces trip hazards and prevents storm-drain blockages.
How to Report a Concern
When you spot a hazard or maintenance need, reporting is fast and straightforward:
- Visit the Town’s online reporting portal at orovalleyaz.gov/Report-an-Issue
- Select the issue category—litter, pothole, brush, spill or safety
- Enter the precise location and upload up to three photos
- Provide your contact information for any follow-up questions
Your report goes directly to the appropriate department. Typical response times range from 24 to 72 hours for non-emergency requests. You may also call Town Hall or stop by in person if you prefer to speak with staff.
Simple Actions for Residents
Every homeowner and visitor can contribute to a cleaner town:
- Pick up after pets: Use provided pet waste stations at parks and trails. Failing to remove waste may violate Town Code and incurs a fine.
- Use public trash receptacles: Dispose of wrappers, bottles and yard clippings in marked containers along multi-use paths.
- Plant native species: Choose drought-tolerant plants to reduce water use and limit overgrowth.
- Secure loose materials: Keep yard waste and outdoor equipment contained to prevent windblown debris.
These everyday habits preserve the natural beauty of our desert environment and protect wildlife habitats.
Volunteer and Adopt-A-Road Programs
Oro Valley’s Keep OV Beautiful program offers multiple ways to get involved:
- Community Clean-Up Events: Join monthly litter pickups sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department.
- Adopt-A-Road or Trail: Commit to two years of quarterly clean-ups along a designated stretch of roadway or trail.
- Spring Planting Days: Help plant native trees and shrubs in public spaces to support desert biodiversity.
- Youth Service Projects: Students can earn service hours by participating in park and wash maintenance.
Sign up online at Keep OV Beautiful Program or contact the Public Works Department for event schedules and materials.
Living “It’s in Our Nature”
Our town motto reflects a shared responsibility. By reporting hazards, picking up litter and volunteering, residents strengthen community bonds and protect public health. Working together preserves the scenic vistas, clear roadways and clean watercourses that define Oro Valley.
Keep an eye on the Town calendar for spring festivals, trail races and environmental fairs. These gatherings celebrate our open spaces and offer resources on water conservation, wildlife protection and desert landscaping.