Airbnb licensing requirements in Mesa, Arizona

Operating a short-term rental (STR) in Mesa, Arizona, requires compliance with local laws designed to balance community needs and tourism growth. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the steps to legally operate an Airbnb or vacation rental in Mesa.

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Types of Short-Term Rental Licenses in Mesa

1. Owner-Occupied Short-Term Rental License

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• For properties where the owner resides on-site.

• Allows rental of rooms or the entire home when the owner is temporarily absent.

• Must be the owner’s primary residence.

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2. Non-Owner-Occupied Short-Term Rental License

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• For entire properties where the owner does not live on-site.

• Subject to stricter zoning and operational requirements.

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Key Requirements for STR Licensing in Mesa

1. Zoning Compliance

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• Verify the property is in a zone that permits STRs using the Mesa Zoning Map.

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2. Short-Term Rental Registration

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• Register the property with the City of Mesa through the Short-Term Rental Portal.

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3. Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License

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• Apply for a Transaction Privilege Tax License through the Arizona Department of Revenue to collect and remit state and local taxes.

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4. Safety and Health Compliance

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• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Provide fire extinguishers and comply with local health and safety codes.

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5. Emergency Contact Information

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• Provide emergency contact details to the city who can respond to issues at the property within one hour.

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6. Neighbor Notification

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• Notify adjacent property owners of your intent to operate a short-term rental.

• Include your emergency contact information.

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Application Process for a Short-Term Rental in Mesa

Step 1: Verify Zoning Compliance

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• Confirm zoning compliance through the Mesa Zoning Portal.

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Step 2: Register the Short-Term Rental

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• Submit a registration form through the City of Mesa’s Short-Term Rental Portal.

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Step 3: Apply for a TPT License

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• Register for a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) License through the Arizona Department of Revenue.

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Step 4: Submit Required Documentation

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• Proof of ownership or lease.

• Emergency contact information.

• Neighbor notification confirmation.

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Step 5: Pay Licensing Fees

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• Registration Fee: $25 annually

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Step 6: Display License Number

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• Display your license number on all listings (Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.).

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Penalties for Non-Compliance

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Non-compliance with Mesa's STR regulations can result in:

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• Fines: Starting at $500 per violation.

• License Suspension or Revocation: For repeated violations.

• Legal Action: Potential legal proceedings for ongoing non-compliance.

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How Lodge Compliance Can Help

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Lodge Compliance simplifies the short-term rental licensing process in Mesa by offering:

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• Permit Application Assistance: Step-by-step guidance through the licensing process.

• Compliance Monitoring: Stay informed of local regulation changes.

• Operational Support: Implement safety and health standards for full compliance.

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Ready to operate your Airbnb legally in Mesa? Request a Demo to learn how Lodge Compliance can help you secure your license and stay compliant.

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Operate Legally and Maximize Your Earnings

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Mesa’s short-term rental market offers excellent income potential. By following the city’s regulations and maintaining high operational standards, you can build a successful and legally compliant vacation rental business.