Chicago requires a free permit for garage, yard, and apartment sales, limits sales to two per year (three if moving), and restricts sales to three consecutive days between 9 AM and sunset. All items must stay within property lines.
Under Chicago's garage sale ordinance, permits are obtained free of charge from the ward alderman's office. Each household is limited to two sales per calendar year, with a third permitted only if the applicant is permanently moving. Sales are limited to three consecutive days between 9 AM and sunset. In case of rain, the sale may be held during the next three consecutive days. If multiple households join a sale, each needs its own permit. All items for sale must be displayed within property lines (MCC 10-8-405) - inside the garage, backyard, or on a side driveway. Signs may only be placed on the property where the sale is held (MCC 10-8-320). Charitable organizations, churches, and schools are exempt from the permit requirement.
Fines range from $50 to $500 per violation. Each day of violation constitutes a separate offense. Sales without permits, exceeding frequency limits, or displaying items beyond property lines are all citable.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle garage sale rules.
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