Registration Rules: Gilbert vs Surprise
How do registration rules rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Gilbert and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
The Town of Gilbert requires every short-term rental owner to obtain a Town STR License under Town Code Chapter 14, Article III (adopted June 2023). The license costs $100 initially and $100 to renew annually, and applicants must hold an active Arizona TPT license, carry $500,000 liability insurance, and designate a 24/7 emergency contact.
View full Gilbert rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Short-term rental operators in Surprise must obtain a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license from Arizona DOR and register with Maricopa County. The city collects bed tax revenue through the state's shared TPT system. Arizona requires STR operators to maintain a local contact.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | Gilbert Town Code Ch. 14, Art. III | - |
| Adopted | June 2023 by Town Council | - |
| License Fee | $100 initial / $100 annual renewal | - |
| Insurance | $500,000 aggregate (A.R.S. § 9-500.39) | - |
| Portal | GovOS / gilbertaz.munirevs.com | - |
| Contact | ShortTermRentals@gilbertaz.gov | - |
| TPT License | - | Required from Arizona DOR |
| Local Contact | - | Must be designated per SB 1350 |
| Tax Collection | - | State + county TPT on rental income |
| Arizona DOR | - | (602) 255-3381 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
Do I need a Town of Gilbert license to rent my home on Airbnb or Vrbo?
Yes. Gilbert Town Code Chapter 14, Article III, adopted by the Town Council in June 2023, requires every short-term rental owner to obtain and maintain a Town STR License before listing. Apply through Gilbert's GovOS/MuniRevs portal with a $100 fee, an active Arizona TPT license, $500,000 in liability insurance, and a 24/7 emergency contact. Email ShortTermRentals@gilbertaz.gov with questions.
What documents do I need to apply for a Gilbert STR license?
You need a valid Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license number, proof of liability insurance with an aggregate of at least $500,000 (or evidence the platform provides equivalent coverage), the name and 24/7 phone number of a designated emergency contact, and an attestation you are not a registered sex offender. Within 30 days of issuance, mail written notice of your emergency contact to adjacent and diagonal-across-the-street neighbors.
Surprise FAQ
Do I need to register my Surprise vacation rental?
Yes. You must obtain a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license from Arizona DOR. This is required regardless of whether your platform collects taxes automatically.
Do I need a local contact person?
Yes. Arizona law (SB 1350) requires STR operators to designate a local contact who can respond to issues at the property.
Does Airbnb handle my tax registration?
Airbnb may collect and remit some taxes automatically, but you still need an independent TPT license from Arizona DOR at (602) 255-3381.
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