SE Arizona News

On Jan. 21, Santa Cruz County finalized new rules for establishments that serve both food and drink, which require that a certified food manager be the job at all times, and that food service locations will be docked points for every violation reported after a health inspection.

According to Arizona Business Daily, there are also fee increases for a restaurant up to 1,500 square feet, bringing the annual permit to $400 from $225. In 2026, that fee will increase to $600. For businesses that have bars and other side operations, there is a new $75 fee, which will increase to $100 in 2026.

These new regulations go into effect partly because the county’s health and sanitary codes haven’t changed much since 1976, according to County Health Services Director Jeff Terrell.

Wineries will be exempt from these rules until April 11, as there is legislation working through the state to exempt wineries, breweries and distilleries because they don’t typically prepare food.

These new regulations have gotten the attention of Steven McEwen, a Rio Rico resident and community activist.

“I feel it’s my duty as a citizen to look for the well-being of the businesses and citizens of Santa Cruz County. I consider it a gross overreach by government,” McEwen told Arizona Business Daily.

A retired law enforcement worker, McEwen attends public meetings and comments at many. He calls the regulations excessive and says he couldn’t find evidence of widespread health risks.

But, he points to unlicensed and unregulated food trucks that are not being inspected. He also told Arizona Business Daily that imposing these rules on wineries doesn’t make sense, because they usually serve things like chocolate, pretzels and peanuts, and are already subject to oversight because they serve wine.

Instead of addressing the issues, McEwen said the new rules are a part of a process that is putting a financial burden on Santa Cruz County with excessive regulation.

The new regulations and fee structure are available on the county’s website.