February 2026
 

2026 compliance checklist

To operate legally in Scottsdale, all short-term rental owners must remain in compliance with state and city requirements. Please remember to: 

• Maintain an active Arizona Department of Revenue Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license 

• Keep your short-term rental registration current 

• Post your local contact information prominently within the rental 

• Respond promptly to complaints or issues involving noise, trash or parking 

• Ensure listings display the required license and registration numbers 

Staying current helps prevent enforcement actions and supports a smoother experience for everyone involved.

Know the difference: everyday living vs. nuisance activity

Short-term rentals follow the same rules as private homes. Everyday activities like hosting guests, enjoying outdoor spaces, playing music at a reasonable volume and using on-street parking are allowed. What’s not allowed are nuisance parties, unlawful gatherings or criminal activity that disrupts the neighborhood, including excessive noise, traffic, litter or disturbances of the peace. Scottsdale’s Nuisance Parties & Unlawful Gatherings Ordinance helps define these limits to protect both residents and responsible rental operators. 

Pool barrier requirements

In an effort to prevent drownings, Scottsdale has implemented barrier requirements for short-term rental properties that include a pool, hot tub or spa. These properties must have a primary 60” perimeter fence, unable to be easily climbed, that prevents public access (ex. a block wall that surrounds the backyard). Perimeter gates must be self-closing, self-latching with the latch placed at least 54” in height. Vehicle gates must be locked.  

Additionally, the property must have a secondary barrier that restricts access to the pool itself. This can be either a separate pool fence or alarm system on doors and windows leading to the pool area. See the two secondary barrier options below.  

Learn more at ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search “short-term rental pool barriers.”

Protect guests and your property: Security camera guidelines

Scottsdale allows cameras at short-term rental properties for safety and security, but there are important rules to protect guest privacy. Cameras must be clearly disclosed in rental listings, cannot be placed inside sleeping areas or bathrooms, and should only monitor permitted spaces like entrances or common areas. Following these guidelines helps hosts maintain trust, ensures guest comfort, and keeps your rental in compliance with city regulations. 

Ensure your rental has a local emergency contact

Scottsdale requires short-term rental properties to have a designated local emergency contact available 24/7. This contact is responsible for responding promptly to guest or neighbor issues, including noise complaints, maintenance emergencies, or safety concerns. Ensuring a reliable local contact helps protect guests, neighbors, and your property, while keeping your rental in compliance with city regulations. Make sure your emergency contact information is up to date and clearly provided to both guests and the city. 

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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