New Arizona Law Lets Construction Start at 5 A.M.

New legislation aimed at streamlining construction hours was enacted on May 13, allowing construction to begin as early as 5 a.m. on weekdays during summer months.

This move, endorsed by Governor Katie Hobbs and state legislators, aims to hasten the building of housing units while prioritizing worker safety amid the intense summer heat.

Construction activities can start at this early hour from May 1 to October 15, with provisions for pouring concrete even earlier. However, residents can still enjoy later mornings on weekends, with Saturday construction limited to after 7 a.m. Local governments maintain authority over Sunday construction schedules.

The law aims not only to speed up construction but also to provide relief from extreme temperatures faced by workers. Senator Analise Ortiz emphasized that about half of Arizona’s cities already permit early starts during the summer months, but the new rule will standardize these practices across the state.

“It ensures consistency across communities and benefits construction workers by allowing them to start when it’s cooler,” Ortiz stated. She advocates for the dismantling of local regulations that inflate housing costs.

Supporting the legislation, Spencer Kamps of the Home Builders Association highlighted worker safety. He argued that adjusting the schedule is the best way to reduce the risk of heat-related injuries.

The law offers uniformity to construction times statewide but does not override existing local regulations. For instance, Pima County has a 6 a.m. start time in summer, while some areas remain at 7 a.m.

Melonie Leslie from the Arizona Masonry Council attested to the physical demands placed on workers, urging support for earlier start times.

Rep. Jeff Weninger also shared his experiences in the construction industry, revealing that starting earlier can lead to more productive days, especially in roofing.

While the new law seeks to benefit construction efficiency and worker safety, it raises questions about its impact on local residents. Ortiz reassured critics by emphasizing that without these measures, the risk of heat-related health issues for workers would be significant.

The governor’s focus remains on expanding housing availability through the elimination of bureaucratic barriers. Her press aide noted that Governor Hobbs is committed to fostering opportunities for Arizonans.

As for concerns regarding disruptive early morning noise, Hobbs remains unapologetically proactive, stating through her aide that she is often awake at 5 a.m. for her work.