Occupancy Limits: Gilbert vs Surprise
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Gilbert.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert requires STR operators to provide one off-street parking space per bedroom, which effectively ties occupancy to bedroom count. The June 2023 STR ordinance regulates rental operations to maintain residential character.
View full Gilbert 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 | Gilbert | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Parking Per Bedroom | One off-street space | - |
| License Required | Town STR license | - |
| Events | Prohibited | - |
| Ordinance Date | June 2023 | - |
| 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.
Gilbert FAQ
How many guests can stay at a Gilbert STR?
Occupancy is linked to bedroom count through the one-parking-space-per-bedroom requirement. The property must maintain its residential character.
Can I host events at a Gilbert short-term rental?
No, events and non-residential uses are not permitted at STR properties. The rental must function as residential lodging only.
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 Gilbert 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