Federal Way, WA Garage & Yard Sales: Garage Sale Permits (2026)

Federal Way does not require a specific permit, fee, or application for occasional residential garage, yard, or estate sales. This is consistent with most Washington cities, which treat casual sales of household items as non-commercial activity exempt from the business license under Federal Way Revised Code Title 12. To remain classified as a garage sale rather than a retail business, Federal Way generally allows up to 3 sales per household per calendar year, each lasting no more than 3 consecutive days. Exceeding these limits can lead to the activity being classified as an ongoing retail business in a residential zone, which is prohibited under FWRC Title 19 (Zoning) and would require a Federal Way business license, state UBI, and commercial zoning relief. Sales must be conducted on private property (garage, driveway, or front yard), cannot block sidewalks or the public right-of-way under FWRC Title 4, and should end by dusk. Traffic and parking generated by the sale must comply with normal on-street parking rules (no blocking driveways, hydrants, or creating safety hazards). Signs advertising the sale are regulated under FWRC Title 19 and cannot be placed on utility poles, street signs, or in the public right-of-way. Washington state sales tax generally does not apply to casual sales of used household goods under RCW 82.12.0273. Call Federal Way Code Compliance at 253-835-2641 or Federal Way City Hall at 253-835-7000 for questions.