Registration Rules: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do registration rules rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix requires every short-term rental owner to obtain a city permit under City Code Sections 10-194 and 10-195 (Ord. G-7156, effective Nov 6, 2023). $250 annual fee, $500,000 liability insurance, valid Arizona TPT license, 24/7 emergency contact, and certified-mail notice to adjacent neighbors and HOAs within 600 feet are mandatory before listing.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Short-term rental operators in Surprise must obtain a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license from Arizona DOR and register with Maricopa County. The city collects bed tax revenue through the state's shared TPT system. Arizona requires STR operators to maintain a local contact.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Code Sections | Phoenix CC 10-194, 10-195 | - |
| Ordinance | G-7156 (eff. 11/6/2023) | - |
| Annual Fee | $250 non-refundable | - |
| Insurance | $500,000 minimum | - |
| Decision Window | 7 business days | - |
| STR Office | 602-534-9723 | - |
| TPT License | - | Required from Arizona DOR |
| Local Contact | - | Must be designated per SB 1350 |
| Tax Collection | - | State + county TPT on rental income |
| Arizona DOR | - | (602) 255-3381 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Do I need a permit to rent my Phoenix home on Airbnb?
Yes. Phoenix City Code Sec. 10-195 (Ordinance G-7156, effective November 6, 2023) requires every short-term rental owner to hold a current city permit before advertising or accepting bookings. Apply through the SHAPE PHX portal with a $250 fee, proof of $500,000 liability insurance, an Arizona TPT license, a 24/7 emergency contact, and certified-mail notice to neighbors. Reach STR staff at vacation.rental@phoenix.gov or 602-534-9723.
How much does a Phoenix STR permit cost and how long does approval take?
The initial and renewal permit fee is $250 (non-refundable) per Sec. 10-195. The Planning & Development Department must issue or deny the permit within 7 business days of receiving a complete application package, and permits run for one year from issuance. Submit renewal applications at least 15 working days before expiration to avoid a lapse.
Surprise FAQ
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.
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