Boston does not have specific time restrictions for garage sales. General noise ordinances apply, practically limiting early morning and late evening activity. Sales should be conducted during reasonable daytime hours to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Boston does not codify specific hours during which garage sales may or may not be conducted. In the absence of a specific ordinance, general noise and nuisance standards apply. Boston's noise ordinance restricts loud activities in residential areas, particularly before 9 AM and after 9 PM. Setup activities involving moving furniture, tables, and merchandise would be subject to these general noise standards. In practice, most garage sales in Boston operate between approximately 8 AM and 5 PM, consistent with customary practice and neighborhood expectations. Early morning setup before 7 AM could generate noise complaints. Sales extending into evening hours may raise concerns about lighting and traffic. Residents in densely populated neighborhoods should be particularly mindful of noise during setup and teardown. The city takes a complaint-driven approach — sales conducted during reasonable hours that do not disturb neighbors are unlikely to face any enforcement action.
No specific garage sale time violation. Excessive noise before 9 AM or after 9 PM may result in a noise complaint through 311. Persistent nuisance activity can trigger ISD investigation. Complaints are handled on a case-by-case basis.
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