Permit Requirements: Gilbert vs Surprise
How do permit requirements rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Gilbert.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert requires all STR properties to obtain and maintain a license since June 2023 in response to SB 1168. The town partners with GovOS for the licensing platform. Arizona ARS §9-500.39 preempts cities from banning STRs.
View full Gilbert rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona state law (ARS 9-500.39) preempts cities from requiring local STR permits or licenses. Surprise cannot require a city-issued vacation rental permit. However, operators must obtain an Arizona TPT license from the Department of Revenue and comply with state registration requirements.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| License | Required since June 2023 | - |
| Platform | GovOS | - |
| State Law | ARS §9-500.39 (can't ban) | ARS 9-500.39 |
| Hotline | 480-503-6787 | - |
| City Permit | - | Not required (state preemption) |
| TPT License | - | Required from Arizona DOR |
| Arizona DOR | - | (602) 255-3381 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
Do I need a permit to list my property on Airbnb in Gilbert?
Gilbert requires all STR properties to obtain and maintain a license since June 2023 in response to SB 1168. The town partners with GovOS for the licensing platform. Arizona ARS §9-500.39 preempts cities from banning STRs.
What are the short-term rental registration requirements in Gilbert?
License: Required since June 2023. Platform: GovOS. State Law: ARS §9-500.39 (can't ban). Hotline: 480-503-6787.
Surprise FAQ
Do I need a permit to run an Airbnb in Surprise?
No city permit is required. Arizona law preempts local STR permit requirements. You do need a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license from Arizona DOR.
Can Surprise ban short-term rentals?
No. ARS 9-500.39 prevents Arizona cities from prohibiting or requiring permits for vacation rentals in residential zones.
Can my HOA restrict short-term rentals?
Yes. HOA CC&Rs are private agreements and can restrict or prohibit rentals. Check your community's governing documents.
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