Tempe, AZ Short-Term Rentals: Short-Term Rental Permits (2026)
Short-term rental permit rules in Tempe, AZ, also called Airbnb permits, vacation rental licenses, or STR registration, list the application steps, fees, and operating requirements for hosting.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Tempe City Code Ch. 16A, Art. X
- State Law
- AZ SB 1350 preempts outright bans
- Requirements
- City registration + TPT license
- Local Contact
- Must be designated and available
- Safety
- Must meet fire/building/health codes
Summary
Tempe requires short-term rental operators to register with the city and hold an Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license. Under Arizona state law, cities cannot ban STRs in residential areas but can regulate safety and nuisance aspects. Registration allows the city to contact owners in emergencies.
require the owner of a vacation rental or short-term rental to obtain and maintain a local regulatory permit or license. As a condition of issuance of a permit or license, the application for the permit or license may require an applicant to provide only the following:
(a) The name, address, telephone number and email address for the owner or owner's agent.
(b) The address of the vacation rental or short-term rental.
(c) Proof of compliance with section 42-5005.
(d) Contact information required pursuant to paragraph 4 of this subsection.
(e) Acknowledgment of an agreement to comply with all applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
(f) A fee not to exceed the actual cost of issuing the permit or license or $250, whichever is less.
Full Breakdown
Under Tempe City Code Chapter 16A, Article X, short-term rental operators must register with the city and maintain a current TPT license. Arizona's SB 1350 preempts cities from prohibiting STRs outright but allows regulation of noise, parking, trash, and safety. Operators must designate a local contact person available within a reasonable time during guest stays. Properties must comply with fire, health, and building codes.
Violations & Fines
Operating without registration or a TPT license may result in fines. The city can issue civil penalties for violations of noise, parking, or safety requirements associated with the rental. Repeated violations may lead to suspension of the rental registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run an Airbnb in Tempe?
Do I need a local contact person for my STR?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tempe
How Tempe compares: Most Airbnb-Friendly Cities in America·Compare Tempe to another location·View the Arizona short-term rentals overview
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Short-Term Rental Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle short-term rental permits.