Austin does not require a permit for residential garage sales or yard sales. Residents may hold garage sales on their property without prior city authorization. Sales that collect Texas sales tax must comply with Texas Comptroller requirements, though occasional garage sales of personal items are generally exempt from sales tax under the Texas Tax Code. If sales become frequent enough to constitute a business, zoning enforcement for unauthorized commercial activity in a residential zone may apply.
Austin's garage sale regulations for city limits allow residents to hold yard sales, garage sales, and estate sales with reasonable frequency limits. Most areas allow 2-4 sales per year, each lasting no more than 3 consecutive days. Sales must occur on the resident's own property, not on sidewalks or public rights-of-way. Temporary signs advertising the sale are typically allowed during the sale period but must be removed within 24 hours after the sale ends. Signs on public property, utility poles, or traffic signs are prohibited. Some areas require a free or low-cost temporary sale permit. Sales of new merchandise or commercial goods may be prohibited under home business regulations.
Exceeding frequency limits or operating ongoing sales may be treated as an unlicensed business with fines of $100–$500. Sign violations carry $25–$50 fines per sign.
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See how Austin's garage sale permits rules stack up against other locations.
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