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Owner Resources
Tucson allows short-term rentals under Arizona's state preemption law (ARS § 9-500.39), which prevents the city from banning STRs in residential areas. The mandatory annual registration program has been active since July 2023. Unlike Scottsdale or Sedona, Tucson does not currently impose permit caps or density restrictions — but operators must complete a three-step registration process before hosting a single guest.
If you own property in Tucson, or are considering it for rental income, the requirements below reflect the current program. Confirm the current registration fee and any updates with the City of Tucson's Business Services Department before you list.
Three-step registration — complete all three before hosting:
Step 1 — Arizona TPT license: Obtain a Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) license from the Arizona Department of Revenue at AZTaxes.gov. Select the transient lodging classification.
Step 2 — City business license: Apply through the Tucson Business Services Department. If you are operating the rental from a property where you also live, include a Home Occupation form with your application.
Step 3 — Pima County Assessor filing: File the Arizona Residential Rental Property notification form with the Pima County Assessor's office.
Annual renewal: All three registrations require annual renewal. The city charges a registration fee (confirm the current amount directly with Business Services, as it is not publicly listed in the city's current documents).
24/7 local contact: Designate a contact who can respond to the property within a reasonable timeframe. This person must be reachable around the clock.
Liability insurance: Minimum coverage required; carry a policy that specifically covers rental activity.
Listing number: Display your city registration number on all platforms and advertising materials.
Tax obligations: The combined effective tax rate on rental income is typically 12–15%: Arizona state TPT (5.6%), Pima County surcharge (approximately 0.5%), City of Tucson TPT (approximately 2.6%), plus the Arizona lodging excise tax. Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit most TPT on operators' behalf — but you remain liable for any uncollected amounts.
No caps currently: As of August 2026, Tucson does not enforce permit quantity caps or density limits. This may change — check with the city if you are planning to acquire additional properties for STR use.
Tucson's STR program launched in July 2023 and will likely evolve as the city evaluates its impact. This page is reviewed regularly against verified government sources, but it is not a substitute for checking directly with Tucson's Business Services Department or your local manager before you apply or renew.
Last verified: August 2026.