Insurance Requirements: Phoenix vs Scottsdale
How do insurance requirements rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Phoenix has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix STR permit applicants must carry at least $500,000 in liability insurance for the rental, or advertise and book through a platform that provides equal or greater coverage.
View full Phoenix rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale requires all licensed STR properties to maintain liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000. This coverage may be obtained through a direct policy or through an online lodging marketplace (such as Airbnb's Host Protection Insurance).
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | A.R.S. 9-500.39(B)(8); Phoenix City Code Sec. 10-197 | - |
| Minimum Coverage | $500,000 aggregate liability | $500,000 liability insurance |
| Alternative | Platform providing equal/greater coverage | - |
| Coverage Source | - | Direct policy or marketplace host protection |
| Coverage Type | - | Bodily injury and property damage |
| Standard Homeowner's | - | May exclude STR activity — check with insurer |
| Proof | - | May be requested during licensing or inspection |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Do I need insurance for a Phoenix short-term rental?
Yes. You must carry at least $500,000 in liability insurance, or book exclusively through a platform like Airbnb or Vrbo that provides equal or greater coverage, per A.R.S. 9-500.39(B)(8).
Scottsdale FAQ
What insurance do I need for a Scottsdale STR?
Liability insurance with a minimum of $500,000 coverage, either through a direct policy or through a hosting platform's protection program.
Does my regular homeowner's insurance cover STR activity?
Often no. Many homeowner's policies exclude short-term rental activity. Contact your insurer to add an endorsement or obtain a separate commercial liability policy.
Does Airbnb's Host Protection Insurance satisfy Scottsdale's requirement?
Verify that the platform's coverage meets or exceeds the $500,000 minimum and covers all required claim types. Some operators obtain additional direct coverage for extra protection.
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