Arizona Mechanics Lien — Deadlines, Laws, and Filing Guide

✓ Verified against Arizona statutes · Reviewed August 2026 · By Michael Evan — Founder · 50 states · 799 rules

Arizona mechanics lien deadlines at a glance

Preliminary Notice

20 days — Prelim from first furnishing

Mechanics Lien

120 days — From completion

Enforcement

6 months — From filing

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Arizona mechanics lien law is governed by Arizona Revised Statutes Sections 33-981 through 33-1008. Arizona has a 120-day filing deadline and requires subcontractors and suppliers to serve a Preliminary 20-Day Notice. This guide covers Arizona lien rights in 2026.

What Is the Deadline to File a Mechanics Lien in Arizona?

In Arizona, the deadline to file a mechanics lien is 120 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials, or from the substantial completion of the project, whichever occurs first. This 120-day window is measured from the last furnishing date.

What Is the Arizona Preliminary 20-Day Notice?

Arizona subcontractors and material suppliers must serve a Preliminary 20-Day Notice on the owner, the general contractor, and the construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials. Failure to serve this notice eliminates lien rights for any work done more than 20 days before the notice was served.

How Long Do You Have to Enforce a Mechanics Lien in Arizona?

After filing a mechanics lien in Arizona, the lienor must enforce the lien by filing a foreclosure lawsuit within 6 months of the date the lien was recorded. Failure to enforce within this period causes the lien to expire.

Where Do You File a Mechanics Lien in Arizona?

In Arizona, mechanics liens are filed with the County Recorder in the county where the project is located. Arizona uses a standard County Recorder filing system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in Arizona?

In Arizona, the deadline is 120 days from the last date of furnishing labor or materials.

What is the Preliminary 20-Day Notice in Arizona?

The Preliminary 20-Day Notice is a mandatory preliminary notice Arizona subcontractors must serve within 20 days of first furnishing to preserve lien rights.

Where do I file a mechanics lien in Arizona?

File with the County Recorder in the county where the project is located.