Orlando vs Scottsdale

Florida Restricted | Arizona Legal with Permit

Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.

Orlando, Florida
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $100 city permit + state DBPR license
Tax Rate 12.5% (6% state + 6% county tourist dev. + 0.5% city)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual (city); Biennial (state)
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $250–$500/day for code violations
Scottsdale, Arizona
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $250/year
Tax Rate ~14.27% combined transient occupancy tax (state + county + city)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; license suspension after 3 in 12 months

Scottsdale has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Orlando Overview

STRs are prohibited in most single-family residential zoning districts. Allowed in tourist-commercial zones and some mixed-use areas. Florida state law preempts local bans enacted after June 2011, creating a complex legal landscape.

Full Orlando guide →

Scottsdale Overview

Ordinance 4566 caps occupancy at 6 adults plus dependent children, requires 1 off-street parking space per bedroom, $500K liability insurance, and neighbor notification within 30 days. Special events and commercial uses prohibited.

Full Scottsdale guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Orlando or Scottsdale?
Orlando is classified as "Restricted" while Scottsdale is "Legal with Permit." Orlando's permit fee is $100 city permit + state DBPR license compared to $250/year in Scottsdale.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Orlando or Scottsdale?
Orlando charges 12.5% (6% state + 6% county tourist dev. + 0.5% city), while Scottsdale charges ~14.27% combined transient occupancy tax (state + county + city). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Orlando: $250–$500/day for code violations. Scottsdale: $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; license suspension after 3 in 12 months.