Occupancy Limits: Scottsdale vs Surprise
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
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 →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona SB 1350 (2022) allows cities to impose occupancy limits on short-term rentals. Surprise enforces limits based on bedroom count. Rentals may not exceed the number of bedrooms multiplied by two, plus additional guests up to the property's posted maximum.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Scottsdale | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | - |
| State Law | - | ARS 9-500.39 (SB 1350) |
| Occupancy Standard | - | Based on bedroom count |
| Events Prohibited | - | No party houses |
| Community Development | - | (623) 222-1200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Surprise FAQ
How many guests can stay in a Surprise short-term rental?
Occupancy is generally limited based on bedroom count, typically two persons per bedroom. The maximum must be posted inside the property.
Can I host events at my Surprise vacation rental?
No. Arizona law allows cities to prohibit use of short-term rentals for parties, events, or large gatherings that create neighborhood disturbance.
What changed with Arizona's STR laws?
SB 1350 (2022) restored some local authority, allowing cities like Surprise to impose occupancy limits and restrict nuisance properties.
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