Elizabeth, NJ Garage & Yard Sales: Time Restrictions (2026)

Time restrictions on garage sales across Union County keep activity within daytime hours compatible with residential neighborhoods. Elizabeth Revised Ordinances Chapter 5.44 restricts sales to 8 AM-6 PM. Westfield Code §11-14 permits 8 AM-5 PM. Summit Code Chapter 155 limits to 9 AM-5 PM. Cranford Code §4-13 allows 9 AM-5 PM. Scotch Plains 8 AM-5 PM. Mountainside 9 AM-5 PM. Plainfield 9 AM-6 PM. Sunday sales are typically permitted in most Union County municipalities but often with later start time (9 AM or 10 AM) to respect morning religious services. All merchandise, tables, display racks, and signs must be put away at the end of each sale day; items may not be left out overnight at the curb or in the front yard. This prevents property blight and limits impact on neighbors. Cranford and Westfield additionally require sale signs (directional arrows on lawn stakes) be removed within 24 hours of the sale's conclusion; signs left beyond the sale date face removal by municipal staff and $25-$50 citations under each town's sign ordinance. Adequate off-street parking for customers is encouraged (though not required) to minimize impact on neighborhood street parking. Repeated complaints from neighbors about traffic, noise, or parking may trigger permit revocation for subsequent sales.