Madera, CA Property Maintenance: Garage Sale Rules (2026)

A review of the Madera County Code of Ordinances did not locate a standalone chapter requiring permits or fees for residential garage or yard sales in the unincorporated area, unlike some California cities that cap the number of sales per year. Instead, garage sales fall under the general framework of Title 18 (Zoning). Section 18.11.100 governs use regulations in residential zones, providing that premises in residential zones may be used only for listed purposes and that activities should generally be conducted in a manner consistent with the residential character of the zone. An occasional household yard sale is typically permissible as an incidental residential activity, but using a property for ongoing retail sales would cross into a commercial 'use' that the residential zoning does not allow and could require a different entitlement. Temporary signs advertising a sale are subject to the county Sign Regulations (Chapter 18.90), including limits on placement and duration, and signs may not be posted in the public road right-of-way. Because no specific garage-sale permit exists, residents should focus on three practical limits: keep sales occasional rather than continuous, keep merchandise and parking from spilling into the road, and remove advertising signs promptly. For any planned recurring sales, contact the Madera County Planning Division to confirm zoning compliance.