Garage Sale Rules: Altadena vs El Monte
How do garage sale rules rules compare between Altadena, CA and El Monte, CA?
Altadena and El Monte have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Garage/yard sales in unincorporated LA County are regulated under County Ordinance 22.140.620. Only secondhand items, no new merchandise or food sales. Hours: 7 AM-6 PM. Maximum 2 signs on property. Property must be residential. Items must not encroach on public right-of-way.
View full Altadena rules →El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte regulates garage and yard sales through its general business and zoning codes. Sales must be conducted during reasonable hours and not create neighborhood disturbances.
View full El Monte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Hours | 7 AM to 6 PM | Daytime hours |
| Signs | Maximum 2, on property only | No posting on public property |
| Items | Secondhand household only | - |
| Reference | County Ord. 22.140.620 | - |
| Goods | - | Personal items expected |
| Frequency | - | Reasonable limits apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Are there rules for garage sales in unincorporated LA County?
Sales should be occasional, conducted on your property (not sidewalks), and limited to personal items. Frequent sales may be considered commercial activity requiring a business license. Follow sign code for advertising.
Can I have a garage sale on the sidewalk?
No. Items must remain on your private property. Blocking sidewalks violates ADA accessibility requirements and county right-of-way regulations. Keep all items, tables, and displays on your property.
How do I advertise my garage sale?
You can post signs on your property and use online platforms. Signs on public property (poles, medians, intersections) are prohibited under county sign code. Signs must be removed promptly after the sale.
El Monte FAQ
Can I leave items out between sale days?
No. Items must be stored out of public view after sale hours each day and after the sale concludes.
When must signs come down?
Within 24 hours after your garage sale ends. Signs left up may result in a citation.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and El Monte compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool