San Joaquin County, CA Garage & Yard Sales: Garage Sale Permits (2026)

Unincorporated San Joaquin County does not impose a permit or fee for residential garage and yard sales — the activity is allowed by right as an incidental use of a residential parcel. However, the Development Title limits garage/yard sales to 3 per household per calendar year, each lasting no more than 3 consecutive days. Sales must be of personal household property only; merchandise acquired for resale (buying to resell at markup) is considered retail activity requiring a home occupation permit and business license. Signage may be posted only on the seller's own property or with permission of the property owner elsewhere; off-site directional signs in the public right-of-way or on utility poles are prohibited and routinely removed by Public Works. Signs must be removed within 24 hours of sale completion. Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, and Tracy have their own permit systems — check city code if you are inside an incorporated city. Estate sales conducted by licensed professionals may have separate rules. Charitable-group sales at churches/schools are exempt from the frequency limit but need the property owner's written consent.