Occupancy Limits: Phoenix vs Scottsdale
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Phoenix has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona law preempts city occupancy caps on short-term rentals, but Phoenix and the state prohibit any nonresidential use, including special events, retail, restaurant, or banquet uses at an STR.
View full Phoenix rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale limits STR overnight occupancy to a maximum of 6 adults or 2 adults per bedroom, whichever is less, plus their minor children. This strict occupancy limit was adopted under Ordinance 4566 to address party house concerns in residential neighborhoods.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | A.R.S. 9-500.39(B), (K); Phoenix City Code Sec. 10-195(C) | - |
| Occupancy Cap | Preempted - no STR-specific cap allowed | - |
| Prohibited | Nonresidential / special-event use | - |
| Max Adults | - | 6 adults OR 2 per bedroom, whichever is less |
| Children | - | Minor children of occupants not counted |
| Listing Requirement | - | Occupancy limits must be stated in rental listings |
| First Offense Fine | - | $500 |
| Third Offense | - | $2,000 + possible license suspension/revocation |
| Party House | - | Nuisance party provisions also apply (Ch. 19) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Does Phoenix limit how many guests a short-term rental can host?
No. Arizona law (A.R.S. 9-500.39(B)) prohibits cities from setting occupancy or guest limits specific to short-term rentals. Only generally applicable residential building, fire, and health codes apply.
Can I host a wedding or event at my Phoenix Airbnb?
No. A.R.S. 9-500.39(K) and Phoenix City Code Sec. 10-195 prohibit nonresidential and special-event uses, including weddings, retail, restaurant, or banquet operations.
Scottsdale FAQ
How many guests can stay at a Scottsdale STR?
A maximum of 6 adults or 2 adults per bedroom, whichever is less, plus their minor children. A 2-bedroom property is limited to 4 adults.
What happens if occupancy limits are exceeded?
Fines start at $500 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second, and $2,000 for the third offense within 12 months, with possible license suspension or revocation.
Can I have a party at a Scottsdale STR?
Gatherings must comply with occupancy limits and noise ordinances. Nuisance party provisions (Chapter 19) apply. Excessive noise between 10 PM and 9 AM may result in citations.
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