Follow the Rules for Sales

Holding a garage sale can be complicated, and it goes beyond just what to sell and how much to ask for it. Many states, municipalities and homeowners associations have rules governing your sale, including when you can have them, how long you can have them and how big they can be.

Furthermore, with the coronavirus pandemic, some states and cities have rules about gatherings, including garage sales.

STATE RULES

Most state rules around garage and yard sales revolve around sales taxes. Because these kinds of sales are occasional sales, they are usually not taxable. If you’re joining a larger sale or flea market, you may be subject to sales tax; ask that vendor for more information.

Local Rules

Cities, counties and other municipalities often have rules that govern garage and yard sales. Some areas, such as Daytona Beach, Florida, require permitting. Fees for that city are only $5, but no more than three garage sale permits may be issued to one residence or family per calendar year. The permit also limits the sale to no more than the daylight hours of three days or two consecutive weekends of Saturday and Sunday.

Other regulations may regulate sales and advertising for garage and yard sales. In Gwinnett County, Georgia, signs must be placed in the right of way, generally 12 feet from the curb or pavement edge. Signs in that county are prohibited from being placed on trees, utility poles and traffic control signs or devices. Only four signs are allowed with each sign limited to four square feet per lot or just one sign limited to 16 square feet per lot. A sign permit is not required as long as these signs aren’t banners.

CITY RULES

City rules regarding garage and yard sales are usually much the same as county rules. The laws often govern how often sales can be held, how many days sales can run and signage for garage and yard sales. Some cities – and counties – may have rules regarding what you can sell. Animals, for instance, may be prohibited for sale at garage sales and some municipalities may also ban weapons and the sale of household chemicals.