Registration Rules: Scottsdale vs Surprise

Do I need a city license to run an Airbnb in Scottsdale?

Yes. Scottsdale Ordinance 4566, codified at SRC 18-175, requires every property rented for less than 30 days to hold an annual city short-term/vacation rental license. The fee is $250 per property and the application is processed through the city's Accela portal. You also need an Arizona Department of Revenue TPT license and Maricopa County Assessor registration under ARS 33-1902. Confirm current requirements with Scottsdale Code Enforcement at 480-312-2546.

Do I have to notify my neighbors when I get a Scottsdale STR license?

Yes. Within 30 days of receiving the city STR license, owners must send written notice to every adjacent single-family property owner and to multi-family residents on the same floor. The notice must include the STR license number, the property address, and the name, address, and 24-hour phone number of the emergency point of contact. Failing to notify can lead to enforcement action by Scottsdale Code Enforcement (480-312-2546).

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.