Short-Term Rental Regulations in Scottsdale, AZ

February 1, 2025

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale has strict short-term rental regulations that all vacation rental hosts must follow. To legally operate an STR (short-term rental), owners must obtain a Scottsdale license, comply with rental regulations, and meet key requirements like insurance, neighbor notification, and noise control. Ignoring these rules can result in fines, license suspension, or legal action. Below is everything you need to know to get started and stay compliant.


Scottsdale Short-Term Rental License Requirements


To operate a short-term rental in Scottsdale, you must secure the proper Scottsdale license before advertising or hosting guests. The process involves a few key steps:


  • Apply for a Scottsdale short-term rental license: A $250 annual fee is required per property.
  • Obtain a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License: This is needed for rental tax compliance.
  • Provide proof of $500,000 liability insurance: This protects both hosts and guests.


Failure to meet these requirements could result in penalties or a revoked license.


Neighbor Notification Requirements


Scottsdale requires all short-term rental hosts to inform nearby residents about their rental property. This rule helps prevent nuisance parties and ensures neighbors know how to contact the property manager if issues arise. Hosts must:


  • Notify all adjacent single-family properties and those directly or diagonally across the street within 30 days of obtaining a Scottsdale license.
  • In multi-family buildings, notify all units on the same floor.
  • Include emergency contact details and the rental license number in the notification.


Proper neighbor notification helps maintain a positive relationship with the community and reduces complaints.


Short-Term Rental Rules and Regulations


To keep Scottsdale’s neighborhoods peaceful, the city enforces strict rental regulations. Every host must comply with these rules:


  • Occupancy is limited to 6 adults (plus their dependent children).
  • Nuisance parties and large gatherings are strictly prohibited.
  • Adequate parking must be provided, but there is no requirement for one space per bedroom.
  • A rental notice must be posted inside the property in a visible location, listing emergency contact information, safety procedures, and waste disposal rules.
  • Hosts must certify that they and their designees are not registered sex offenders or convicted felons within the last five years.


Breaking these short-term rental rules can result in escalating fines and legal consequences.


Taxes and Compliance for Scottsdale Rentals


In addition to licensing, all short-term rentals in Scottsdale must comply with rental tax laws. Hosts are required to:


  • Collect and remit taxes totaling 14.27% (State, Maricopa County, and Scottsdale taxes combined).
  • File tax reports as required. If Airbnb or another platform collects and remits taxes on behalf of the host, separate filings may not be necessary, but hosts should verify their obligations.


Failure to follow rental tax regulations can result in penalties from the Arizona Department of Revenue.


Enforcement and Penalties


Scottsdale enforces its short-term rental regulations strictly. Violations can lead to heavy fines or loss of the Scottsdale license. Common penalties include:


  • $500 fine for the first violation.
  • $1,000 fine for a second violation.
  • $2,000 fine and possible license suspension for a third violation within 12 months.
  • Unlicensed vacation rentals face $1,000 fines per violation.
  • Scottsdale actively monitors STR listings and tracks unlicensed rentals.


How to Stay Compliant and Avoid Fines


To avoid penalties, rental property owners should:


  • Maintain proper insurance and keep all rental regulations up to date.
  • Follow neighbor notification rules and display required rental notices.
  • Prevent nuisance parties by screening guests carefully.
  • Pay all required taxes on time and file reports properly.


Operating a vacation rental in Scottsdale is still profitable, but compliance is essential to avoid legal trouble.


Why Worry About Compliance? Let Home Team Vacation Rentals Handle It for You


Navigating Scottsdale’s short-term rental regulations can be overwhelming. Between obtaining a Scottsdale license, ensuring neighbor notification, following rental regulations, and staying compliant with nuisance party laws, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in paperwork. But you don’t have to do it alone.


At Home Team Vacation Rentals, we help with full-service vacation rental management in Scottsdale designed to take the stress out of STR compliance. Our team ensures your rental property meets all city and state requirements, so you can focus on maximizing your income without the hassle.


How We Help Scottsdale Short-Term Rental Hosts


We handle every aspect of your rental, including:


  • Scottsdale License & Compliance – We take care of applications, renewals, and city requirements.
  • Neighbor Notification & Guest Screening – Ensuring you meet Scottsdale’s rental regulations while maintaining positive community relations.
  • Tax Compliance – Helping you manage TPT licensing and short-term rental tax obligations.
  • 24/7 Guest & Property Management – We keep your vacation rental running smoothly with top-tier hospitality services.
  • Luxury-Level Property Optimization – We maximize your Scottsdale property’s potential with premium amenities, pricing strategies, and professional marketing.


Stress-Free STR Management, Maximum Returns


Whether you’re a seasoned vacation rental investor or just starting out, compliance shouldn’t hold you back. Let us handle the details while you enjoy hassle-free income and a top-tier guest experience.


📞 Contact Us Today: 727-977-3238
📧 Email:
Hello@hometeamvr.com
➡️ Get a Free Income Report & See How Much You Could Earn!



Disclaimer: This guide on Scottsdale vacation rental and Airbnb regulations is provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with top legal or regulatory professionals. While we strive to ensure that the information presented is accurate and up-to-date, regulations may change, and interpretation of these rules may vary. Property owners are encouraged to review official city documents, ordinances, and consult with local authorities or top legal advisors to ensure full compliance.

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