Updated Nov 2025 | Private Projects: ARS §33-1006
Mechanics liens are one of the strongest payment recovery tools in construction. In Arizona, when a lien has been filed and the claimant is paid before enforcement, the lien must be released.
This guide explains the requirements for recording a valid mechanics lien release in Arizona.
When to File an Arizona Mechanics Lien Release
In Arizona, every construction party who files a mechanics lien and successfully gets paid must file a separate document to cancel/release the lien.
Note that an Arizona mechanics lien release is recorded after a lien has already been filed and the claim has been settled. It’s different from a lien waiver, which is exchanged before or at payment to prevent a lien from being filed (A.R.S. § 33-1008).
AZ Mechanics Lien Release Rules
- For most property types, the lienholder must issue and record a lien release within 20 days after payment even without a written request (A.R.S. § 33-1006(A)).
- For owner-occupied dwellings, the lienholder must issue the release within 20 days after receiving a written request and the recording fee from the owner (A.R.S. § 33-1006(B)).
Another important detail to remember is that you must release an Arizona mechanics lien only after you have verified that the payment has cleared. A check may bounce and a credit card transaction may get rejected, so make sure that the payment has been approved before you file your Arizona mechanics lien release to avoid losing recovery options.
What Happens If You Fail to Release an Arizona Mechanics Lien?
If you don’t release your lien within the 20-day deadline after payment (and, when required, a written request), you may be liable for:
- $1,000 statutory penalty, plus
- Actual damages caused by the delay, and
- Reasonable attorney fees (A.R.S. § 33-1006(C)).
How to Release an Arizona Mechanics Lien
1. Prepare the Arizona Mechanics Lien Release Form
While A.R.S. § 33-1006 does not prescribe a mandatory form, make sure to include the following information for proper recording:
- Recording number and filing date of original lien
- Name of party who owed payment
- Your name and address
- Statement that the lien is satisfied and released
The release must be signed and notarized before recording. Most of the information that you need for your Arizona mechanics lien release form can be found in the original lien. Minor spelling errors can cause confusion and may even invalidate the release.
2. Record the Release
File the release in the same county recorder’s office where the lien was originally recorded. You can file in person or by mail with the appropriate recording fee.
If the property is owner-occupied, make sure the requesting party provides payment for recording costs with their written demand.