Registration Rules: Mesa vs Surprise

Do I need a license to rent my Mesa home on Airbnb?

Yes. Effective February 1, 2023, Mesa City Code Chapter 5-15 requires every short-term or vacation rental (under 30 days) to hold a Mesa Short-Term Rental License. The fee is $250 to apply and $250 to renew each year per unit. You must also hold an Arizona TPT license, register with the Maricopa County Assessor, and carry at least $500,000 in liability insurance. Apply through Mesa Business Services and Licensing.

What information do I have to post and share with neighbors?

Mesa requires the owner or designee contact and a 24/7 emergency point of contact to be posted in a conspicuous place within three feet of the primary entrance, and the application requires that information for the city. You must also notify adjacent neighbors that the property will be used as a short-term rental. Operating without a license can lead to monthly civil penalties starting at $250 and escalating to $900.

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.