Registration Rules: Glendale vs Tempe

Do I have to register my Glendale Airbnb with the city?

Yes. Glendale City Code Section 29.1-41, effective January 2023, requires every vacation and short-term rental owner to register the property before offering it on Airbnb, Vrbo, or any platform. You must provide owner contact info, a 24-hour emergency contact, proof of $500,000 liability insurance (or use a platform that provides equivalent coverage), and confirmation that adjacent neighbors were notified. A separate Arizona TPT license using region code GE is also required.

Does Glendale charge a fee for short-term rental registration?

Arizona state preemption (ARS 9-500.39) caps any local STR permit or registration fee at $250 per year. Glendale's published STR webpage has at times listed registration as no-cost; confirm the current fee with Glendale Customer Service at 623-930-3190 before paying anything billed by GovOS or any third-party portal.

Do I need a license to rent my Tempe home on Airbnb or Vrbo?

Yes. Tempe City Code Chapter 16A, Article X (Ordinance O2023.01) requires every owner renting a dwelling for fewer than 30 consecutive days to hold a City of Tempe Short-Term Rental License before listing. The annual fee is $250 (prorated to $187.50 after July 1) and you also need a state TPT license, $500,000 liability insurance, a 24/7 emergency contact, neighbor notice, and Maricopa County rental registration. Apply through Sales Tax & Licensing at 480-350-2955.

How long does Tempe take to approve a short-term rental license?

Tempe must issue or deny the STR license within 7 business days of receiving a complete application, per Ordinance O2023.01. Submit before peak ASU events (move-in, football, Fiesta Bowl) to avoid backlog. Renewals run annually; if the city does not act in 7 business days, owners should contact Sales Tax & Licensing at 480-350-2955 to confirm status before listing the property.