Sacramento does not require a permit for residential garage sales, yard sales, or estate sales. These are considered a normal accessory use of residential property. Sales must be conducted on the property and not extend onto sidewalks or public rights-of-way. No city fee or registration is required to hold a garage sale.
Residents may hold garage sales without any permit or city registration. Items for sale should be personal belongings rather than newly purchased merchandise for resale, which would constitute a retail business requiring a business license. Sales should be conducted entirely on private property with adequate off-street parking for customers. Signs advertising the sale must comply with temporary sign regulations and cannot be placed on public property or utility poles. The City does not restrict the type of items sold at garage sales, though certain regulated items (firearms, alcohol) have separate state laws.
Operating what is effectively a retail business from a residence without a business license may result in zoning enforcement. Sales that create significant traffic, noise, or parking problems may draw code compliance complaints.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle garage sale permits.
See how Sacramento's garage sale permits rules stack up against other locations.
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