Occupancy Limits: Denver vs Phoenix
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Denver, CO and Phoenix, AZ?
Denver and Phoenix have similar restriction levels.
Denver, CO
Denver County
Denver does not cap nightly STR guest counts under DRMC Chapter 33, but rentals must be the host's primary residence and may only be rented to a single party at a time.
View full Denver rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix requires STR permits under Ordinance G-7156 (effective January 2024) per City Code Section 10-195. While the ordinance does not set specific occupancy caps, it prohibits events such as parties and weddings at STR properties. Operators must comply with all residential noise and nuisance standards.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denver | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Code | DRMC Ch. 33, Art. III | - |
| Nightly Guest Cap | Not specified | - |
| Primary Residence | Required | - |
| Booking Parties | Single party at a time | - |
| Verification | License, voter, vehicle, utility records | - |
| Code Section | - | Phoenix City Code §10-195 |
| Ordinance | - | G-7156 (effective Jan 15, 2024) |
| Events | - | Parties and weddings prohibited |
| Emergency Contact | - | Must respond within 30 minutes |
| State Law | - | AZ SB 1168 authorizes local STR permits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denver FAQ
Does Denver limit how many guests can stay in a short-term rental per night?
Chapter 33 does not set a specific nightly guest count. Occupancy is shaped by the primary-residence rule, the single-party-at-a-time rule, and building-code life-safety standards.
Can I rent rooms in my Denver home to two different groups at the same time?
No. The STR may be rented to only one party at a time, even though there is no numeric guest cap.
How does Denver verify my home is my primary residence?
Through documents such as driver's license, voter registration, vehicle registration, tax filings, and utility bills tied to the address.
Phoenix FAQ
Does Phoenix set a maximum occupancy for short-term rentals?
The Phoenix STR ordinance does not set a specific occupancy cap, but it prohibits events like parties and weddings. Operators must comply with all applicable building codes, fire codes, and nuisance laws.
What happens if an STR is overcrowded or disruptive?
Violations carry escalating fines: minimum $500 for first violation, $1,000 for second, and $3,500 for third. Three court-adjudicated violations in a year result in a 12-month permit suspension.
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