Occupancy Limits: Chandler vs Surprise
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Chandler, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Chandler.
Chandler, AZ
Maricopa County
Chandler's STR ordinance (Chapter 22) restricts occupancy based on bedroom count and prohibits non-residential uses including events and parties at short-term rental properties.
View full Chandler rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona SB 1350 (2022) allows cities to impose occupancy limits on short-term rentals. Surprise enforces limits based on bedroom count. Rentals may not exceed the number of bedrooms multiplied by two, plus additional guests up to the property's posted maximum.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chandler | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Events | Prohibited at STR properties | - |
| Occupancy | Tied to bedroom count | - |
| Response Duty | Must respond to complaints | - |
| Code Reference | Chapter 22 | - |
| State Law | - | ARS 9-500.39 (SB 1350) |
| Occupancy Standard | - | Based on bedroom count |
| Events Prohibited | - | No party houses |
| Community Development | - | (623) 222-1200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chandler FAQ
Can I host events at a Chandler short-term rental?
No, Chandler specifically prohibits using STR properties for non-residential purposes including events and parties. This anti-party-house provision is actively enforced.
How many guests can stay at a Chandler STR?
Occupancy is tied to the property's bedroom count and residential character. The STR must function as residential lodging, not a venue.
Surprise FAQ
How many guests can stay in a Surprise short-term rental?
Occupancy is generally limited based on bedroom count, typically two persons per bedroom. The maximum must be posted inside the property.
Can I host events at my Surprise vacation rental?
No. Arizona law allows cities to prohibit use of short-term rentals for parties, events, or large gatherings that create neighborhood disturbance.
What changed with Arizona's STR laws?
SB 1350 (2022) restored some local authority, allowing cities like Surprise to impose occupancy limits and restrict nuisance properties.
Compare other topics
See how Chandler and Surprise compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool