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Scottsdale Strengthens Strategy to Manage Short-Term Rentals and Protect Neighborhoods

The city of Scottsdale is reinforcing its commitment to maintaining neighborhood quality of life and utilizes a coordinated, cross-departmental strategy to address the complex challenges of short-term rentals (STRs).

Spearheaded by the Scottsdale Police Department, this comprehensive approach is led by Commander Jeromie O’Meara and the department’s dedicated Short-Term Rental Unit. The unit serves as the central point of contact for all STR-related calls for service and enforcement issues and provides a consistent and effective response to concerns such as excessive noise, disorderly conduct, and unlicensed rental activity.

In addition to overseeing daily operations and enforcement, Commander O’Meara also leads the city’s Short-Term Rental Working Group, an interdepartmental team that includes representatives from Code Enforcement, Planning, Licensing, Legal, Constituent Services, and the City Manager’s Office. This collaborative effort ensures a unified and proactive approach to STR licensing, regulation, and community impacts.

“By centralizing communication and uniting departments under one strategy, we’re better equipped to manage the evolving challenges short-term rentals present,” said Commander O’Meara. “This approach allows us to protect neighborhood integrity while ensuring fair and consistent enforcement of city codes.”

From 2022 to the present, licensed properties have steadily increased. With enforcement and educational efforts, there has also been a decrease in unlicensed properties. As of June 2025, Scottsdale has 3,024 licensed STR properties.

“As short-term rentals remain a growing part of Scottsdale’s hospitality landscape, our primary focus is, and always will be, the safety and well-being of our community,” Scottsdale Police Chief Joe LeDuc stated. “We are committed to upholding the quality of life in our neighborhoods by ensuring accountability, enforcing the law, and working collaboratively across city departments to address concerns.”

Licensing Requirements for STR Operators

All properties in Scottsdale offered for rent for fewer than 30 days must be licensed through the city. The annual licensing fee is $250 per property and supports administrative and enforcement costs associated with STR oversight. This city license is required in addition to county and state permits. Step-by-step instructions for obtaining a license are available at ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search “short-term rental.”

How Residents Can Report STR Issues

Residents experiencing immediate concerns — such as loud parties, music, or disruptive behavior — are encouraged to first contact the emergency point of contact listed at STR.ScottsdaleAZ.gov. If the issue is not resolved, residents can call the Scottsdale Police Non-Emergency Line at 480-312-5000. Officers will be dispatched based on priority and availability.

For non-urgent property concerns—such as litter, overflowing trash, general maintenance and upkeep matters, or unlicensed rentals—reports can be submitted online via ScottsdaleEZ at ScottsdaleAZ.gov, by searching “EZ,” or by calling Code Enforcement at 480-312-2546.

Resources and Information

Scottsdale has developed an STR resource page on the city website, which includes:

  • Frequently asked questions
  • Licensing details for owners/operators
  • Good Neighbor Guides
  • Pool barrier and safety requirements
  • Steps for addressing STR-related issues

For more information, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search “short-term rental.”

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