Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 12-1171
Acts which constitute forcible entry or detainer
Operative Text
A person is guilty of forcible entry and detainer, or of forcible detainer, as the case may be, if the person: 1. Makes an entry into any lands, tenements or other real property, except in cases where entry is given by law. 2. Makes such an entry by force. 3. Wilfully and without force holds over any lands, tenements or other real property after termination of the time for which such lands, tenements or other real property were let to him or to the person under whom he claims, after demand made for the possession of the lands, tenements or other real property by the person entitled to such possession.
Under A.R.S. § 12-1171 et seq., Arizona law defines two related offenses: forcible entry, which occurs when someone enters real property without legal authorization or by using force, and forcible detainer, which occurs when someone remains on real property after their lease or rental period has ended and the person entitled to possession has demanded they leave. These rules apply to any lands, tenements, or other real property. The statute establishes the legal boundary between a lawful presence on property and one that may be challenged through court proceedings.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under A.R.S. § 12-1171 et seq. generally document the end of a tenancy period and issue a clear, formal demand for possession before pursuing legal remedies. Compliant operators typically ensure that any re-entry of a property after a tenancy ends follows lawful procedures rather than self-help measures. Maintaining written records of lease terms, expiration dates, and any demands for possession supports a well-documented eviction process if one becomes necessary.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
A.R.S. § 12-1171 et seq. defines the circumstances under which a tenant's continued occupancy may be treated as a forcible detainer, which generally requires both that the rental period has ended and that the person entitled to possession has made a demand to vacate. Tenants who believe a forcible entry or detainer action has been filed against them incorrectly may raise procedural or factual defenses in court, such as disputing whether proper demand was made. Tenant-rights organizations and legal aid services in Arizona can help explain how these definitions apply in general terms and what options may be available.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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