Time Restrictions: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do time restrictions rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Yard sales in unincorporated LA County are permitted between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM only per County Ordinance 22.140.620. No more than 2 signs allowed, placed on the property only. Signs must be put up no earlier than one day before and removed immediately after the sale.
View full Altadena rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Garage sale hours in Santa Monica should be during reasonable daytime hours to avoid noise complaints. The city's noise ordinance SMMC Ch. 4.12 applies to any activity generating excessive noise in residential areas.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Hours | 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM | Reasonable daytime hours |
| Signs | Maximum 2, on property only | - |
| Sign Timing | 1 day before, remove after | - |
| Display Area | Front/side yard, off public ROW | - |
| Noise | - | SMMC Ch. 4.12 applies |
| Residential | - | Must not disturb neighbors |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
What hours can I have a garage sale?
While no specific ordinance sets hours, sales should be held between 7 AM and 6 PM to avoid noise complaints. Setting up before 7 AM or running past sunset may violate the county noise ordinance.
How many days can a garage sale last?
One to two days is standard. Extended sales (3+ days) may be considered outdoor storage or commercial activity, which could trigger code enforcement. Keep it brief and remove unsold items promptly.
Do I have to take down garage sale signs?
Yes. Signs must be removed promptly after the sale. Signs left on public property (poles, medians) are already prohibited under the county sign code and can result in fines.
Santa Monica FAQ
What hours can I hold a garage sale?
Typically 8 AM to 6 PM or sunrise to sunset. Check Santa Monica ordinance for specific allowed hours.
Do I need to clean up after the sale?
Yes. All items, tables, and signs must be removed or stored out of sight by the end of sale hours.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Santa Monica 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