New to Carefree?

Here's everything you need to know...

The Town of Carefree is a scenic desert community nestled in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, celebrated for its natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and vibrant cultural offerings. Known for its charming downtown, public art displays, and community-driven events, Carefree offers a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. With sweeping mountain views, starry night skies, and a strong sense of community, it’s a place where creativity thrives, small-town hospitality is a way of life, and every season brings something new to explore.

Carefree was founded in the 1950s as one of the nation’s first master-planned communities, envisioned by entrepreneurs K.T. Palmer and Tom Darlington. Their goal was to design a place where people could live in harmony with the desert landscape—“carefree,” in every sense of the word. That visionary spirit continues to shape the Town today.

To learn more about Carefree’s journey from its founding to today, explore the full Town historic timeline using the button below.

In recent years, the Town Council and staff have worked collaboratively to develop a Strategic Plan to help guide Carefree’s future while honoring its unique character. This plan outlines the Town’s mission and vision, both of which are rooted in community values and long-term sustainability.

Town Vision:

The Town of Carefree is dedicated to preserving its small-town charm and rural character, while ensuring transparency and fiscal sustainability. Our vibrant town fosters a welcoming destination, blending natural beauty with a friendly atmosphere and strong community values.

Town Mission Statement:

The Town of Carefree is dedicated to preserving its unique small-town charm which combines natural beauty with thoughtful design and growth. We prioritize transparency, community engagement, and collaboration. Our commitment to fiscal sustainability and public safety enhances the quality of life for all residents, businesses and visitors.

Town Leaders

Mayor and Town Council-

The Town Council is made up of seven individuals who are elected by the public to serve four-year terms. They represent the community and work closely with Town staff.

Click the button below to view photos and read bios of each Council member or view the monthly quorum calendar.

Local Resources

Public Works-

Our Public Works Department is a small but mighty team of four who help keep the Town running smoothly. They handle everything from clearing storm debris and fixing road signs to maintaining streets, trails, and public spaces like the Town Center and Desert Gardens. If you see trash, damaged signs, or other issues around Town, they're the ones who take care of it!

Get Involved

Government Meetings-

All meetings are held in the Town Council Chambers at 33 Easy Street, near the Hampton Inn.

  • Town Council Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m.

  • Planning & Zoning Commission Meetings take place on the second Monday of each month at 4 p.m., along with any related board meetings.

Town Administrator-

Gary Neiss is the Town Administrator and has proudly served in this role for 23 years. In his position, he oversees the day-to-day operations of the Town, coordinates with department heads, manages budgets, and implements policies set by the Town Council. He is committed to supporting Carefree’s vision and mission. His leadership ensures that the Town continues to thrive while preserving its unique character and quality of life.

Rural Metro Logo

Fire & Medical Services-

Carefree contracts with Rural Metro Fire for their Fire & Medical Services. The Carefree Fire Department is located at 37401 N Tom Darlington Road, Carefree, AZ 85377.

Town Events-

Carefree hosts and is home of a variety of fun community events during the months of October - May including...

  • Monthly Art Nights

  • Veterans Day Celebration

  • Christmas Tree Lighting

  • Channukah in Carefree

  • Earth Day Celebration

  • Memorial Day Tribute

Planning & Zoning Commission-

The Planning & Zoning Commission is made up of seven individuals who are appointed by the Town Council. Members also serve on various boards, including the Development Review Board, Board of Adjustments, and Economic Development Advisory Board. Click the button below to learn more about each board.

Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Logo

Police Protection-

Carefree is in an intergovernmental agreement with Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for their police protection and traffic control services.

Newsletters & Emails-

Stay connected and be the informed voice in your neighborhood! Subscribe to receive emails on everything happening in Carefree. We send both a weekly and monthly digital newsletter, along with event reminders, PSAs, road closures, water shut-offs,, important government announcements, and more.

Sign up using the button below!

Utilities

Water

Sewer

Gas

Electric

Internet

Carefree Water Company

Liberty Utilities

Southwest Gas

APS( Arizona Public Service)

Cox Communications

Carefree Water Company manages the water supply for the town, including the operation of local wells. Residents receive and pay their water bills directly to the company.

Liberty Utilities is responsible for maintaining and servicing the town’s sewer systems and pipelines. They ensure safe and efficient wastewater management for Carefree residents.

Southwest Gas provides natural gas service to homes and businesses throughout Carefree. Contact Southwest Gas for service questions, billing, or to report a gas leak.

APS (Arizona Public Service) provides electric power to the Town of Carefree and handles all electric billing. They maintain the infrastructure that delivers electricity to homes and businesses.

Cox Communications offers internet services throughout Carefree. They provide reliable high-speed internet access to residents & local businesses. Contact APS for internet outages.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Town Code

The Town of Carefree’s municipal code outlines important guidelines to help preserve the community’s peaceful and scenic character. These include noise ordinances that limit disruptive sounds, especially during nighttime hours; construction rules that restrict work to certain times of day; and sign regulations that ensure signage is tasteful and appropriate for the area. All building and development projects must follow permit requirements and design standards that align with local zoning and safety codes.