Garage Sale Signs: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do garage sale signs rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge allows temporary yard sale signs only on the sale property itself. Signs on utility poles, trees, or public right-of-way are prohibited and removed by DPW.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville allows temporary yard sale signs on private property during the sale. Signs may not be posted on utility poles, trees, traffic signs, or city property and must be removed promptly after the sale.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed location | Sale property only | - |
| Public posting | Prohibited | - |
| Size | Up to 6 square feet | - |
| Removal | Within 24 hours of sale | - |
| Enforcement | DPW removes illegal signs | - |
| Private property | - | With owner consent |
| Poles and trees | - | Prohibited |
| Removal deadline | - | 24-48 hours after sale |
| Post-sale neglect | - | Littering violation |
| Sight lines | - | Must not obstruct |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I stake signs at nearby intersections?
No. Signs in the public right-of-way, including tree-belts and poles, are removed by DPW.
How long can signs stay up after the sale?
All temporary signs must be removed within 24 hours after the sale ends.
Somerville FAQ
Can I staple signs to telephone poles?
No. Somerville strictly prohibits attaching any private signs to utility poles or trees. Violators face removal and fines.
What if I forget to take my signs down?
Signs left past the removal deadline are cited as litter. Crews may remove them and fine the organizer listed on the sign.
Compare other topics
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