Short-Term Rental Rules in Scottsdale, AZ (2026): Permits, Taxes and Limits
Short-term renting is allowed in Scottsdale, AZ. Hosts must obtain a city license and comply with local regulations, including paying necessary taxes.
Do you need a permit or license?
Yes, hosts must obtain a vacation rental license issued by the city for each property rented for less than 30 days [1][2]. A license is valid for one year and is not transferable [1]. The license fee is $250 per property [2].
Taxes
Hosts must pay a privilege tax at 1.7% and a transient tax at 5% for lodging furnished under 30 days to a transient [3][4]. Taxes are due by the 20th day of the month following revenue recognition [4].
Limits and restrictions
Applicants must provide detailed property and owner information, confirm no major criminal offenses, and have a valid transaction privilege tax license [1].
Penalties
Operating without a valid license incurs a minimum fine of $1,000, and not applying for a license after notice results in an additional $1,000 penalty every 30 days [1].
How to apply
Applications are submitted on a form prescribed by the city manager, including required details such as the property address and emergency contact information [1]. Licenses should be issued within seven business days unless specific denial grounds exist [1].
At a glance
| Topic | What the rules say |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes, for each property rented under 30 days [1][2]. |
| License fee | $250 per property [2]. |
| Tax rate | 1.7% privilege tax, 5% transient tax [3][4]. |
| License term | 1 year [1]. |
| Application processing | Within 7 business days [1]. |
| Fine for no license | $1,000 minimum per violation [1]. |
FAQ
What is the tax rate for short-term rentals?
The privilege tax is 1.7%, and the transient tax is 5% for rentals under 30 days [3][4].
How long is the license valid?
The license is valid for one year from the date of issuance [1].
What happens if I don't have a license?
You will be fined a minimum of $1,000 per violation [1].
Running a rental in Scottsdale
Permits, taxes and stays are easier to keep straight in one place. Rentology runs short, mid and long-term rentals in one system.
Sources
- ARTICLE IX. - VACATION RENTALS AND SHORT-TERM RENTALS | Code of Ordinances | Scottsdale, AZ | Municode Library (official)
- Information for Owners and Operators (official)
- Taxes (official)
- CITY OF SCOTTSDALE (official)
Last checked: October 7, 2026. This page summarizes rules the city, county or state has published. It is not legal advice, and rules change: confirm with the city before you list a property.