Security Deposit Rules: Phoenix vs Scottsdale
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Phoenix and Scottsdale have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Revised Statutes 33-1321 caps residential security deposits at one and a half months' rent and requires landlords to refund or itemize within 14 business days of move-out; Phoenix follows the state rule with no stricter local cap.
View full Phoenix rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1321 caps residential security deposits at one and one-half months rent and governs return procedures statewide. Maricopa County applies state law without additional local rules or registration requirements.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Refund deadline | 14 business days after move-out | - |
| Statute | ARS 33-1321 | - |
| Deposit cap | 1.5 months rent maximum | - |
| Wrongful withholding | Double damages plus fees | - |
| Forwarding address | Tenant must provide in writing | - |
| Maximum deposit | - | 1.5 months rent |
| Return deadline | - | 14 business days |
| Penalty | - | 2x wrongful withholding |
| Forum | - | Justice Court |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
How much can my Phoenix landlord charge for security deposit?
No more than 1.5 months' rent under ARS 33-1321. Pet deposits and last month's rent count toward this cap unless designated separately and clearly nonrefundable in writing.
How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
14 business days from when you surrender the unit and provide a written forwarding address. Missing either condition pauses the clock under Arizona's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.
What if my landlord keeps the deposit unfairly?
Sue in justice court for double the wrongfully withheld amount, attorney fees, and court costs under ARS 33-1321. Document move-out condition with photos and a written walk-through.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can my landlord charge a non-refundable cleaning fee on top?
Yes, if labeled non-refundable in writing in the lease. Otherwise it counts toward the 1.5-month deposit cap under ARS 33-1321(B).
What if I do not get my deposit back in 14 days?
Send written demand citing ARS 33-1321(D), then file in Maricopa Justice Court for twice the wrongfully withheld amount plus filing-fee recovery.
Compare other topics
See how Phoenix and Scottsdale 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