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Saguaro Man – FAQ

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Saguaro Man is an independent community of artists, musicians and interactive participation created by the artists who attend it.

We create community through creative interaction and a gift economy. We don’t hire entertainment. You are the entertainment! Participation is mandatory-No spectators! Be yourself or be someone else! Saguaro Man is what the participants create within the customs and courtesies of a gift economy and radical self-expression.

What can you expect at Saguaro Man?

Saguaro man is 80 acres of undeveloped to sparsely developed natural desert. There are a few roads on the land and nothing else. There are no hook ups, water, electric, rv dumps, Wi-Fi, cleared camping pads or spots. 

Only registered theme camps will have designated spaces reserved. All other campers will use “open camping”. Your vehicle will be parked with you. There is no designated parking lot.

This is a space for radical self-expression, spontaneous creativity, and unique social interaction. This happens within a gift economy and desert living conditions where you must provide everything you need to survive and nothing is for sale. You will see art work and performance not seen anywhere else.

This is a pack it in pack it out event. Please bring everything you need to survive and thrive for the duration of the event. There will be Porto potties on site. AND remember LEAVE NO TRACE!

The Gate will be open at Noon on Wednesday and the event runs until 4pm on Sunday. No early arrivals, without a work access pass. See daily gate hours below.

Early entrants or overnight arrivals must park in D LOT, on the property NOT ON THE ROAD LEADING to the EVENT!

What do I need to know about camping?

  • Do I need a camping pass? No, camping is included with your ticket.
  • Tickets – See the Saguaro Man Ticket page and FAQ
  • What are Gate hours
    • Wed Noon-10pm
    • Thurs 8am-Midnight
    • Friday 8am-Midnight
    • Saturday 8am-6pm
    • If you arrive outside of Gate hours, please park in “D-Lot” by the gate. Do NOT drive in.
  • What’s the road like?
    • Mostly great, until the last few miles. Drive really slowly on the bumpy part. See video of road.
    • See Direction page. Google is close but read the directions page for a caveat.
    • Your average car can do it but leave your Low-rider or Ferrari at home.
    • Is there a designated area for RVs? No but your can bring your RV. Be prepared for undeveloped desert, no cleared spaces, pads, no hook ups.
  • Grey Water – Grey Water may be dumped on property if you use Biodegradable soap and strain it.
    • Showers are also allowed with Bio-degradable soap.
    • You leftover food particles are MOOP. Your grease and oil are MOOP. Please bring a lidded jar or canister to secure it and other MOOPy water, and take it out with you. Remember, we are guided by LNT
    • Wipe your pans with paper towels or a cloth before washing. Then run the water through a filter (cheese cloth, or an old t-shirt) to remove particulates, before disposing on the land.
    • Grey water includes shower water, cooler water, filtered dish water, etc.
    • Plan to bring a 5 gallon bucket with a lid to take dirty water and food waste home.
  • Can I dump my RV on site? No, There is no RV dump on site. Please plan accordingly and be prepared to not dump until after you leave the event.
  • Can I camp in my vehicle? Yes!
  • Can I reserve my camping spot in advance? No, unless you are a registered theme camp. Those theme camps will have a designated space and be placed by placement.
  • Can I bring a generator? Yes. However generators must be placed on a clear dirt pad with no vegetation or brush. Gas needs to be safely stored in sealed containers and kept away from generators and the sun. All generators should have a baffle to reduce noise that is large enough to not overheat the generator.
  • Is there (relatively) quiet camping? There is a designated quiet area. No loud amplified sound is permitted in the designated quiet area.
  • What are the camp sites like?
    • Roads have been cut (see the Land page for maps and photos)
    • Camp sites may need a little clean-up. Bring loppers and rakes. Maybe a hand saw or axe.
    • If a bush/tree is over 4 feet – pls trim branches but do minimal damage to the plant.
    • If a bush is under 4 feet, cut as needed (again, please be kind to nature)
    • Please leave Mesquites alone.
    • Strongly recommend setting up camp during daylight hours. If you are open camping and come late at night, consider parking in D Lot and setting up camp in the morning.
  • How can I find my friends or theme camps?
    • Large maps will be placed at Gate and SagArtery/Playa Info.
    • If you want to help your friends find you, stop by both locations after you set up, and write in your names and location on the maps.
    • Check out the Who What Where When for event times and locations
    • Download the phone freindly WWWW (Available by Sunday night).
  • Critters
    • It is unoccupied land and we’ve been cutting roads and clearing shrubs. Critters have been disturbed.
    • One snake was seen. Bright orange. Just leave them alone. And wear shoes/boots
    • No scorpions have been seen but they’re probably out there
    • There are spiders and ants. Big ants. Biting spiders.
    • Zip up your tents COMPLETELY. No gaps
    • We recommend against setting up cuddle puddles on the ground. If you do set up one, check before diving in.
    • Javalinas have been seen on the property. The likely will stay away from the noise – but consider securing your food.
    • Neighbor’s dogs roam freely and visited us at SMan’22. Keep your pets close and safe.
  • What’s the weather like?
    • Bring your g-strings, banana hammocks, and your fur coats. Warm during the day and cold at night (very much like the Playa)
    • Check Willcox, AZ weather as it is very similar to our land
  • Are there designated quiet hours?
    • Yes, 2:00AM – 9:00AM, EVENT-WIDE QUIET TIME
    • Large Scale Sound, NO Bass NO Sub-Woofers TBD onsite,
    • Remainder of Saguaro Man grounds TBD onsite,
    • NO Bursts from any Flame Effect,
    • Live Drums must be Baffled,
    • Generators on limited to no use
  • Can we bring a sound system? If you plan to bring a sound system you must register as a theme camp and comply with the sound policy. http://azburners.org/info-center/sound-policy/
  • Can we bring flame effects? All art, camps or mutant vehicles using flame effects must register and meet all safety requirements. (See SMan page for signup)
  • How do I register as a theme camp? (See SMan page for signup)
  • Do you have photos of the land and directions? Yes – see http://azburners.org/our-land/
  • Saguaro Man 2020 Ticket Holders
    • Arizona Burners and the Saguaro Man event pursued multiple avenues of communication with all 2020 ticket holders in good faith prior to Saguaro Man 2022 including emailing all ticket holders, information on the ticket web page, notifications in the newsletter, announcement list, and facebook pages.
    • The Window for action on any tickets held for Saguaro Man 2020 was prior to the 2022 Saguaro Man event.
    • Prior to the 2022 event ticket holders could: Refund, Transfer/ Sell, Attend the 2022 Saguaro Man event.
    • If a ticket holder did not take any of the above listed actions any unused 2020 tickets became null and void after Saguaro Man 2022.

Can children attend?

Saguaro Man welcomes families with children at our events. Children are the future of our culture and we want to include them, educating them about our culture and art as they grow and become adults.

Those under the age of 18 will need a parent or guardian at least 21 years of age to be with them at the gate when they check in.  

Those 12 years and younger (Including infants), will need to order a child ticket to get on the Will Call List. Make sure that you let us know the Gender & Age of your child – List Them with YOUR last name, to easily find them on the Will Call list. children@azburners.org.  

If you bring your children, be prepared to supervise them THE ENTIRE TIME. Do not expect the community to watch your children for you. Parents are completely responsible for their children, and assuring that the “Under 21” Wristband is worn at all times by the child. Additional “Under 21” wristbands are available at the Gate.  We want your children to have fun and you are solely responsible for their well-being. If community issues arise with any participant of Saguaro Man, the involved parties may be asked to leave by event organizers. This includes children and their parent(s)/guardian(s). There is a dedicated camp for those families that wish to camp with other families with children. If you would like to connect with that camp click here: Saguaro Man Kids Camp FaceBook Group for information about Kids Camp. NOTE: Kids Camp is a private theme camp run by attendees of the event. It is not an official department of Saguaro Man, their policies, rules, and camp practices are not necessarily a reflection of the official event.

Can I bring my dogs or cats?

  • Please read the full dog agreement here http://azburners.org/info-center/dog-agreement/
  • Each individual owner can bring no more than three dogs. Attempting to skirt this requirement by registering your dogs with more than one owner will be grounds for expulsion from the event
  • The best policy is to leave your dog at home. If you bring your dog to Saguaro Man, your dog needs a ticket, should be well socialized with other dogs and people. Be sure that your dog is compatible with large events like this – crowds, children, other animals, loud music, bright lights and most of all fire. If you do bring your dog, you are advised to keep him away from camps and parties with loud music and fire effects. Dogs have sensitive hearing and it can be damaged by loud sounds.
  • Each dog will be issued a numbered tag. Dog & Owner will be registered at the gate. If complaints about the dog are made, they will be documented, and Saguaro Man leadership will be notified.
  • Dog participants must be well trained and be on a leash, always. The owner is 100% responsible for the dog’s behavior, interactions with other dogs, other people, and with the land. Dog owners should know that if their dog bites, snarls, growls, or otherwise violates this policy (which will be left up to the discretion of Saguaro Man leadership) that the dog and dog owner will be asked to leave.
  • Each dog should be brightly lit at night, for his safety and those around him.
  • When unattended, the dog should be placed in an enclosure, pen, or inside a camper where it will be comfortable and safe. Dogs should not be left alone for long periods of time where they may be excessively barking or otherwise causing problems for neighbors. Yes, your dog barks when you are gone.
  • Dog owners are encouraged (but not required) to camp at or near Dogville, where they will be less likely to disturb those without dogs – Contact Dogville about camping with Dogville.
  • If your dog is found running around without YOU it’s owner, being abusive to other dogs or people, or otherwise causing problems, a warning will be issued and depending on the severity, you and your dog may be asked to leave delete and/or banned from bringing dogs to AZBurner events in the future. These decisions will be up to Saguaro Man leadership
  • Dog owners must immediately pick up dog waste. Please, do not consider that it’s okay to litter the land with it. It creates an immediate health hazard for the event. The owners of Dogville have gratuitously purchased pet waste litter boxes. Your pets waste should be placed here and not in the portable restrooms, which is for Human Bodily waste ONLY.
  • The bottom line is that you must have your dogs under control and safely taken care of throughout the event. Bringing a dog to Saguaro man is a privilege, not a right. Think of it like bringing a baby. You must put your dog’s safety and well-being (and the safety and well-being of other animals and participants) first and foremost in your efforts.

Dog owners need to have their dogs in control throughout the event! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

What about my vehicle, Art car, Mutant vehicle?

  • Can I drive my vehicle around the event? No, for everyone’s safety we ask that once you drive into the even and find your camp spot that you park your vehicle for the remainder of the event. This includes Quads, Minibikes, Go-Karts, etc. Only registered mutant vehicles (art cars) may drive around the event.
  • Is there a parking lot for all vehicles? No, your vehicle will be parked with you at your campsite.
  • How do I register a mutant vehicle? http://azburners.org/dmv

Can I buy ice on site?

  • Every human ticket holder (children included) will get one FREE bag of ice
  • Ice freezers will be on-site near Center Camp
  • Ice hours are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Noon – 2pm

Can I buy food, water, gifts etc. on site?

No, Our event is based on 11 principles one of which is decommodification. 

Decommodification

In order to preserve the spirit of gifting, our community seeks to create social environments that are unmediated by commercial sponsorships, transactions, or advertising. We stand ready to protect our culture from such exploitation. We resist the substitution of consumption for participatory experience.

AZ Burners pro tip: Offering items and services for sale at regional events is prohibited. Vending and commercial activity is not allowed. Your money is no good here.

The 11 Principles

You can read more about our event principals here. http://azburners.org/the-11-principles/

Do I need a bike?

Most likely no. While some participants with mobility issues find a bike helpful most participants find them cumbersome at such a small event. The roads are minimally developed and there are currently no good bike paths. Flat tires are a hazard due to all the thorny stuff. The land is 80 acers. If you choose to bring a bike you are responsible for its maintenance and making sure it leave with you after the event. LEAVE NO TRACE.

Can I take photos?

  • You must always ask if it is OK to take pictures or video of people for personal and private use. You must never place those images on a public website without their permission.
  • It is never OK to sell images or video of regional events or publish images of our events without written permission of the event hosts, planners and people photographed. There are free red bands available at gate. Anybody wearing this red bracelet is expressing their desire to not be photographed. Any images that contain a person wearing the red band should be deleted or altered, to hide the person. Violation of this rule can have consequences, up to and including suspension from future events.

Are there trash cans, dumpsters on site?

  • No, you must collect and haul away all of your trash. DO NOT leave trash in other camps, at dance areas, or public spaces. There are NO PUBLIC TRASH CANS.
  • Leave No Trace. Pack it in Pack it out and clean up after your self. Leave nothing behind. Also we ask that you take the time to look around and be prepared to clean up something some other burner might have missed.

What do I need to know about fire?

You should be familiar with Saguaro Man Fire Art Policies & Saguaro Man Fire Policy

  • Can I bring a burn barrel, charcoal grill etc?
    • NO. Propane fire only in camps. Please clean out tinder near your stove/firepit.
    • NO fireworks.
    • Violation of the fire policy will result in immediate removal from the event and a permanent ban from future burns.
  • Will we have an effigy burn? If the winds are in our favor, and the fire lead approves there will be a Man/ Temple burn.
  • Will there be public burn barrels? If there are adequate volunteers to keep watch some public burn barrels may be placed.
  • Can I spin fire?
    • Yes, however you must read the full fire policy. Fire performance is only allowed in designated areas that clear of brush and debris. All performers must be sober and have fire safeties. Fuel must be secured and attended.
    • Burn area is the ONLY open spin area
    • Some camps are allowing fire spinners. Please speak with a camp lead before lighting up.
    • We recommend watching the FlowArts Institute’s Fire Safety Project Videos (bottom of the page)
    • All fire spinners have to attend mandatory fire safety training before spinning. Trainings will be held at the Great Balls of Fire camp – Wed 7pm, Thur-Sat 2pm and you will receive a bracelet to confirm completion.
  • For addition fire related questions see the fire policy http://azburners.org/info-center/az-burner-fire-policy/

Fire is an integral part of our Arizona community. At Saguaro Man we encourage and support all types of safe fire art and overall fire appreciation. The following information and guidelines are designed to promote the safe use of Burn Barrels, Fire Performance Art, Burnable Art, and Flame Effects including Poofers and Fire Sculptures.

The integrity of Saguaro Man heavily relies on having a safe relationship with fire. One slip up, mistake, mishap or oversight may result in hazardous consequences. Not only does it threaten the future of our regional event, it could seriously hurt or even kill a participant. Working with, handling, and dealing with fire should never be taken lightly. Please cooperate with Fire Safety Leads, Heliotropic Rangers, Event Leads, Camp Placement, and Art Team and the community at large when working with fire. We do not want to limit creative expression, but strive to keep our participants safe.

If you have specific questions about fire at Saguaro Man, please email fire@azburners.org

Are there accessibility accommodations at this event?

Are there accessibility accommodations at this event?

  • There will be Handicapped accessible Portos. They will be marked on the maps on Gate, SaguArtery and other places.
  • NO POWER IS AVAILABLE! If you use electric Mobility equipment, you must bring a generator or other power source to recharge your equipment. If you require a C-pap machine, you must bring your own power source.
  • Roads and paths are rudimentary, all dirt and cleared of brush. There are irregular surfaces and soft dirt. You will have the best mobility with a “off road” type scooter or wheelchair. 4 wheels are better than 3, larger tires are better than skinner ones, and more ground clearance is better than less. If it rains, all roads and paths will get muddy” Be advised that motorized vehicles should be registered with the department of mutant vehicles. Vehicles for accessibility can be done at Gate when you arrive.

Are there emergency services on site?

As Burners you are already Radically Self-Reliant. However, when Medical Services are needed there are resources available.

The Emergency Services station will be located behind Ranger HQ. If you encounter cuts, scrapes or booboos – we are here to assist. We also have a small number of over-the-counter medicines to help with minor illnesses and reactions. We will also have a driver & transport available if the Emergency Services staff recommends that you seek off-site Medical Assistance.

If you feel you or someone else needs medical attention, please get a hold of a Ranger, Saguaro Man Lead, or go to Emergency Services. Safe and HAPPY BURN!

Are you a Medical professional who would like to volunteer for our emergency services team? Please contact medical@azburners.org

Is nudity allowed?

There is an expectation of a certain level of nudity at AZ Burner events on private property. At no time is it appropriate to intentionally expose private body parts, being reckless about the fact that another person present would be offended.

Arizona Revised Statute 13-1402 Covers Public Nudity.

Any AZ Burner event that is held at a location that is visible by, or open to the general public, must comply with this law. AZ Burner events held on private property, with no public view are permitted to have respectful nudity.

Arizona Revised Statute 13-1425 CoversArizona Revised Statute 13-1425  Covers ALL Nude Photography.

This law is aggressive and specific. If you plan on taking photographs of any nudity, it is your responsibility to know this law. AZ Burners does not support or encourage any illegal activity

Can we serve, and have open containers of alcohol?

All camps and participants are responsible to ensure no persons who are underage are served alcohol.  All attendees OVER the age of 21 will be issued a separate distinctive wrist-band.

Any camp found to be serving alcohol to minors will be evicted from the event.

Participants are permitted to walk around the event with open containers. We do recommend beverage containers with lids.

What should I know about the culture of Saguaro Man?

When attending regional functions at Burning Man, someone’s home or at a remote regional event the AZBurners practice a few core values.

If you are new to our group we’d like you to take a moment and read the core values so you understand how we socialize as a group.

  • Respect for other people’s property and that of their neighbors is an absolute necessity. Trashing someone’s land during a gathering or tossing trash, cups, bottles and cigarette butts on the ground or floor is a big No.
  • Acceptance of other cultures and lifestyles is required. We celebrate the differences between us but in the end we are all Burners. Individuality and radical self expression is part of the culture of Burning Man.
  • Have respect for other people’s personal boundaries. No means No. Just because someone is naked or partially so, does not mean they want to have sex with you, or that they want “Touch”. You must treat everyone with respect and dignity even if we are silly looking and act weird.
  • Violent behavior against others is not permitted. If you have issues with someone leave the area or ask the hosts or Heliotropic Rangers to intervene and resolve the dispute in a non violent way.
  • We practice a gift economy. Offering items and services for sale at regional events is prohibited. Vending and commercial activity is not allowed.
  • No spectators, Participate… Don’t Spectate. Create and share.
  • Refrain from creating cliques. We all have close Burner friends we enjoy being with. Including others can make lifelong friends. Remember, at one point we were all Newbies.

Where can I find the policies and rules?

Where can I find the policies and rules? http://azburners.org/info-center/

How do I buy, sell or exchange my tickets? http://azburners.org/saguaro-man/tickets/

How do I learn about the land and location? http://azburners.org/our-land/
(including photos, video and directions)

How do I volunteer? http://azburners.org/volunteering/
(When you click on the Sign Up link, make note that there are tabs for each of the teams. Some, like Medical, Rangers, Sound, and DPW etc. – require that you first contact the department lead)

How do I contact a department lead? http://azburners.org/departments/

How do I get my very specific to me question answered? Please read this FAQ first. Specific questions to the Saguaro Man event organizers should be sent to saguaroman@azburners.Org

What should I bring?

Saguaro Man is not for the faint of heart or the unprepared. By purchasing your ticket, you are agreeing to assume full responsibility for your health, safety and well-being. You will also be expected to respect the environment and Leave No Trace.

Saguaro Man, the Arizona Regional Burn, is about self-reliance, self-expression and creativity in an environment where we celebrate the differences in people instead of ridiculing them. More importantly, you as an attendee create what the event is. Individual and group participation and creativity is what Saguaro Man is about. Each person has unique talents-some of us don’t define ourselves as artists, but everyone has some talent or skill to offer as a participant at this event. We offer you the opportunity to explore those skills and talents with us. Remember, don’t come to be entertained… You are the entertainment.

At the bare minimum, each participant should bring:

  • Two (2) gallons of water per person per day
  • Water bottle
  • Enough food to survive in the wilderness for the entire time, and the means to prepare it independently of any infrastructure
  • Clothing appropriate to hot days and cool nights
  • Sturdy shoes! the ground is rough and there are a lot of thorny things
  • Eating utensils, as well as a plate, bowl and cups
  • Tent, with adequate preparations for intense sun and rain
  • Bedding, pillows, air mattress, futon or camping pad
  • Sun block, hat, Umbrella, Parasol, other sun protection.
  • Headlamp, flashlight, electric lantern
  • Pocket knife, multi-tool, mallet
  • Towel
  • Garbage bags (you are responsible for the disposal of ALL your trash. Pack it in, pack it out!)
  • First aid kit

It is also strongly recommended, for your personal comfort and hygiene, that you bring the following:

  • Portable chairs/seating
  • Biodegradable soap (Dr. Bronner’s or similar)
  • Paper Towels
  • Sanitary wipes/wetnaps
  • Festival belt, backpack, hydration pack
  • Menstrual hygiene products
  • Shade structure

But of course, if we all just brought the bare minimum, it wouldn’t be Saguaro Man, would it? Saguaro Man is a celebration of gifting, self-expression, participation, arts, music, and fun. Here are some strongly recommended items to take with you on your adventure:

  • Costumes! Let your imagination run wild. Different kinds for different occasions are strongly encouraged…the more and the wilder, the better!
  • Glowsticks, EL wire, personal lighting
  • Toys, musical instruments, and props
  • Tasty libations and spirits
  • Delicious meals and food to share
  • Crafts, trinkets, jewelry and shiny things to gift
  • Flow toys, hoops, fans, beach balls
  • Art supplies
  • Flags

What is prohibited?

NO Hand-Held Lasers:
Small lasers are cheaper and more powerful than ever before, which means they are more prevalent and can cause more of a risk to public safety @ Saguaro Man. Hand-held lasers at burns have always been annoying, but they’re also dangerous. While lasers are not new to our culture, technological advances have made them inexpensive & powerful enough to cause permanent injury from distances up to 10 miles away.
The event known as Burning Man aka TTITD banned hand-held lasers in 2015 due to safety concerns when a Ranger on Burn Perimeter was blinded and permanently disabled because of a hand-held laser. Hand-held lasers will not be permitted; please leave them at home. Do not bring them. Period.
Art Projects may employ mounted lasers or smaller hand-held lasers with Art Project Lead supervision and said lasers must stay with the Art Project at all times; these exceptions must have per-approval from the Saguaro Man Leads & the Art Council.
Use COMMON SENSE – Don’t point lasers at people. If you are caught with an unapproved hand-held laser @ Saguaro Man said laser will be confiscated for the duration of the event.

NO, Firearms in the event
Arizona is a “right to carry state” – per Arizona Statutes ARS §13-3102-08: Citizens have the right to openly carry and travel with a firearm without a permit, and concealed with a permit. However due to the nature of this event, insurance regulations and consumption of alcohol by some attendees we ask that if you travel with a firearm that you leave it safely stored unloaded and locked in your vehicle while inside this event. You may not carry or display a firearm as part of your participation inside this event.

NO Illicit substances, illegal drugs, or drug paraphernalia
The possession or distribution of illegal drugs is not permitted at Saguaro Man. Please do not bring illicit substances or paraphernalia to the event. All county and state laws are applicable while attending the Saguaro Man.

NO, uncapped rebar stakes
You may not use rebar at AZ Burner events unless it is bent or capped!
There will be extra rebar caps at Gate for anybody who finds unprotected rebar. Help educate your neighbors.

NO, Fireworks, pyro-technics, explosives

No, Burn barrels, fire pits, charcoal grills, tiki torches, candles, open flame (Propane fire pits, grills are permitted)

No Promotional materials, flyers, coupons, business cards, product samples, promotional items

No sales or vending of any kind

No being the person who makes us add Drones to this list… – Follow the photo rules, and don’t be a jerk. You can still have drone, please don’t make us change that.

NOTE: Saguaro Man its producers and affiliates are not responsible to the safe keeping, storage or return of confiscated prohibited items. It is the responsibility to not bring prohibited items to the event or store them locked in their vehicles.

How do I find out more about AZ Burners year-round?

This website!

The Arizona Announce list is a moderated announcements-only list for events of interest to local Burners. Recipients get regular updates, event listings, and Burning Man news from this list.

To subscribe, send a blank email to: arizona-announce+subscribe@burningman.org  ​

Also check out the AZ Burners Facebook Group or the Saguaro Man Facebook Group