Short-term (Airbnb) rentals (STRs) have become increasingly popular in Tucson, Arizona, as more tourists seek alternative accommodations to traditional hotels. However, with the rise of STRs, the city of Tucson has implemented regulations to ensure that they operate safely and legally. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about STR regulations in Tucson, Arizona.
How does Tucson, Arizona, define a short-term (Airbnb) rental (STR)?
According to Tucson City Code Chapter 18, a short-term rental is defined as a dwelling unit that is rented out for less than 30 consecutive days. This includes rentals through platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO.
Can an investor own more than one vacation rental property in Tucson, Arizona?
Yes, investors can own multiple vacation rental properties in Tucson, Arizona, as long as they comply with the city’s regulations.
What is Tucson, Arizona’s requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?
To obtain a Vacation Rental License in Tucson, the investor must meet the following requirements:
- Provide proof of property ownership
- Obtain a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license from the Arizona Department of Revenue
- Register the short-term (Airbnb) rental with the city
- Provide contact information for a responsible agent who can be contacted in the event of an emergency
What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Tucson, Arizona?
The cost of a Vacation Rental License in Tucson is $215 per year, plus a $50 application fee.
Does Tucson, Arizona, have any zoning restrictions for STRs?
Yes, the city of Tucson has zoning restrictions for STRs. In certain zones, STRs are not allowed, while in other zones, a vacation rental permit is required.
Can an investor own and operate their Airbnb property as a business entity in Tucson, Arizona?
Yes, investors can operate their Airbnb property as a business entity in Tucson, Arizona.
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Can investors register accessory dwelling units (ADU), duplexes, and multi-family homes in Tucson, Arizona as Vacation Rentals?
Yes, investors can register ADUs, duplexes, and multifamily homes as vacation rentals in Tucson, Arizona, as long as they comply with the city’s regulations.
What is Tucson, Arizona’s requirement for obtaining a Vacation Rental License?
To obtain a vacation rental license in Tucson, Arizona, investors must apply with the city, submit documentation, and pay a fee. The application process includes a property inspection and a review of the property’s compliance with city regulations.
What are the costs associated with a Vacation Rental License in Tucson, Arizona?
The cost of a vacation rental license in Tucson, Arizona, varies based on the number of units and bedrooms in the rental property. The cost ranges from $150 to $900.
Does Tucson, Arizona, have Vacation Rental occupancy limits?
Yes, Tucson, Arizona has occupancy limits for vacation rentals. The maximum occupancy is two people per bedroom plus two additional people.
Does Tucson, Arizona, require an inspection for investors to obtain an STR license? What are the physical and structural requirements for a vacation rental?
Yes, Tucson, Arizona requires an inspection of vacation rental properties before issuing a license. The property must meet certain physical and structural requirements, such as having proper fire exits and smoke detectors.
Does Tucson, Arizona, have any responsible agent requirements?
Yes, Tucson, Arizona requires vacation rental owners to designate a responsible agent who the city or neighbors can contact regarding the rental property.
Does Tucson, Arizona, have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?
Yes, vacation rental owners in Tucson, Arizona must maintain liability insurance and provide proof of insurance to the city.
What are the duration and renewal terms of a Tucson, Arizona, Vacation Rental license?
A vacation rental license in Tucson, Arizona is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
In Tucson, Arizona, do Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf? Are there any taxes the host must track and pay directly to Tucson, Arizona?
Yes, both Airbnb and VRBO remit taxes on the host’s behalf in Tucson, Arizona. Hosts must also track and pay a transaction privilege tax to the city.
Does Tucson, Arizona have specific insurance requirements for a Vacation Rental?
Yes, Tucson requires that investors have liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $500,000.
What are the duration and renewal terms of a Tucson, Arizona Vacation Rental license?
The duration of a Tucson Vacation Rental License is one year, and it must be renewed annually.
Who should I contact if I have questions regarding Tucson, Arizona Vacation Rentals?
If you have questions regarding Tucson, Arizona Vacation Rentals, contact the city’s Planning and Development Services Department at (520) 791-5550 or visit their website for more information.
