No, squatting in Arizona is illegal under state and local laws, with penalties including criminal trespass and eviction. Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1504 criminalizes unlawful occupancy, while Maricopa County’s 2025 “Anti-Squatting Ordinance” imposes fines up to $2,500 for repeat offenders. Property owners must follow formal eviction processes via the Arizona Justice Courts, as self-help remedies are prohibited.
Key Regulations for Squatting in Arizona
- Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1504: Classifies squatting as criminal trespass in the third degree, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500 for first offenses. Subsequent violations escalate to felony charges under § 13-1503.
- Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. § 33-1301 et seq.): Requires landlords to obtain a court order for eviction; forcible entry or lockouts are illegal. Violations trigger civil penalties under A.R.S. § 33-1367.
- Local Ordinances (e.g., Maricopa County Code § 10-80): Mandate property owners to report squatting incidents to the Sheriff’s Office within 48 hours. Failure to comply delays legal remedies and may void insurance coverage for property damage.