May 2025
 

Welcome to Scottsdale’s short-term rental newsletter

You’re receiving this newsletter because you are listed as a short-term rental (STR) property owner or manager in Scottsdale. This is the first edition of a new quarterly update designed to help you stay informed, compliant and connected. Each quarter, you’ll receive timely updates on city ordinances, safety requirements, best practices and resources that support your success as a responsible host. Whether you manage one property or many, thank you for doing your part to keep Scottsdale guests and neighborhoods safe and welcoming.
 

Pool barrier compliance saves lives

If you own or manage a short-term rental property in Scottsdale with a pool, hot tub, or spa, your role in water safety is critical. Scottsdale has clear pool barrier requirements designed to prevent drownings – and compliance isn’t just a legal obligation, it’s a life-saving responsibility.
 

Why it matters

Drowning is a silent and devastating tragedy. Since January 2024, Scottsdale has recorded 21 water-related incidents, resulting in 13 deaths. Of those fatalities, one was a child under five, one was a school-aged child, and eleven were adults. These aren’t just numbers – they’re neighbors, visitors and family members.
 

Your role in prevention

As a short-term rental operator, your guests may not be familiar with the property or its safety features. Children, in particular, can be drawn to water without understanding the dangers. That’s why Scottsdale’s pool barrier requirements are so important:

• Backyard fencing: Your property must have a primary barrier that is at least 60 inches tall, with self-closing and self-latching gates.
   
• Secondary protection: This can be a pool fence or audible alarms on doors and windows leading to the pool area.
   
• Spa and hot tub safety: If your spa or hot tub is not enclosed by the pool fence, it must have a lockable cover.
   

These safety measures align with Scottsdale Revised Code (S.R.C. §18-175(g), §31-16, and Chapter 31, Article XIII) and the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.
 

Enforcement and support

Failing to comply may result in enforcement actions – but more importantly, it could mean a preventable death. Scottsdale’s Inspection Services team is available to help property owners understand and meet these safety standards. For questions or support, call 480-312-2500 or email [email protected].

You can also visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search “short-term rental pool barriers” for full details and resources.

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Safety is everyone’s responsibility

In Maricopa County, nearly 100 water-related incidents are reported each year – half involve children and end in tragedy. Your proactive steps as a rental property owner or manager can prevent heartbreaking statistics. Ensuring proper pool barriers, encouraging guest supervision and staying compliant are simple yet powerful ways to protect lives.

Let’s work together to make Scottsdale a safe place for everyone - residents and visitors alike.

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Resources

• Update a Scottsdale short-term/vacation rental license
• Update a Neighborhood Notification & Liability Insurance Compliance Attestation
• Scottsdale's Short Term Resource Center map
• A Good Neighbor Guide for Scottsdale Visitors (PDF)
• A Good Neighbor Guide for Owners and Managers of Short-Term Properties in Scottsdale (PDF)
• Hiker Safety Card (PDF)

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