Insurance Requirements: Mesa vs Tempe
How do insurance requirements rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Tempe has fewer restrictions than Mesa.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa requires all short-term rental operators to maintain liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000 as a condition of their STR license under Title 5, Chapter 15.
View full Mesa rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe's STR license ordinance (O2023.01) and Arizona law (ARS 9-500.39) establish the framework for STR insurance. Operators should carry liability insurance as standard homeowner's policies may exclude STR activity. STR platforms provide some host protection, but personal coverage is recommended. The annual $250 license fee helps fund enforcement.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Coverage | $500,000 liability | - |
| Proof Required | With license application | - |
| Ongoing Requirement | Must maintain coverage | - |
| Code Reference | Title 5, Chapter 15 | - |
| License | - | Tempe STR license required ($250/year) |
| License Penalty | - | Up to $1,000/month without license |
| Homeowner's Policy | - | May exclude STR activity |
| Platform Insurance | - | Limited host protection available |
| TPT Rate | - | 14.07% combined |
| State Law | - | ARS 9-500.39 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
How much insurance do Mesa STR operators need?
Mesa requires a minimum of $500,000 in commercial general liability insurance coverage for all licensed short-term rental properties.
What happens if my STR insurance lapses in Mesa?
Failure to maintain the required $500,000 liability insurance can result in suspension or revocation of your Mesa STR license.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need insurance for my Tempe STR?
While not mandated at a specific level by the city, standard homeowner's insurance likely excludes STR activity. Specialized STR insurance is strongly recommended.
How much is the Tempe STR license?
The annual non-refundable fee is $250 per property. Failure to obtain a license carries penalties up to $1,000 per month.
What taxes do I pay on STR income in Tempe?
The combined TPT rate is 14.07%. You need a TPT license from the Arizona Department of Revenue.
Compare other topics
See how Mesa and Tempe 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