Renting in Tempe

The City of Tempe has several codes affecting rental property within the city.  Landlord and tenant responsibilities may be different than in neighboring cities.  Failure to comply with these codes may result in civil citations or criminal complaints.  More information can be found by accessing the information on the links listed below.    

One of the most common concerns is how many people can live together in a home.  In Tempe's single family districts, the maximum number of unrelated people that can live together is three (3), regardless of the size of the home or number of bedrooms in the home.  Tempe's Zoning and Development Code (ZDC) regulates this through the land use code, the definition of "family" and the City's consanguinity chart. 

In addition to the standards for occupancy and the condition of the property, the following responsibilities apply to tenants and landlords:

Tenants 

Landlords

  • Must register property with Maricopa County Assessor's Office
  • Are required to obtain a Tempe privilege tax license and collect and remit sales tax
  • Should proactively check their properties for compliance with city codes and terms of their lease
  • Comply with The Rental Housing Code standards which include maintaining the interior and exterior of the property.
    • Must have maintained landscaping in all yards
    • No chipping or peeling paint
    • Provide adequate bathroom facilities
    • Kitchen to have working appliances
    • No electrical hazards
    • Safe, working heating and cooling facilities