Mountain View allows garage sales in residential zones without a permit but limits frequency and prohibits merchandise displays that spill into the public right-of-way or block sidewalks.
Residential garage, yard, and estate sales are permitted on private property in Mountain View without a City permit, provided they remain incidental, non-commercial events. The Zoning Ordinance limits sales to a small number per year per household (commonly 2 to 3 weekends) to prevent operations that resemble a home-based retail business. Sale items must be personal household goods belonging to the resident, not purchased inventory for resale. Merchandise cannot be placed on sidewalks, parkstrips, or streets, and tables must remain on the private lot. Parking congestion must not block driveways or fire hydrants. Signs are regulated separately and must be removed after the sale ends. Large or frequent operations may be treated as unpermitted commercial activity and subject to code enforcement citations.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View prohibits disturbing noise between 10pm and 7am weekdays and 10pm to 8am weekends, with enforcement by police and code enforcement officers.
Mountain View, CA
Amplified music from speakers, DJs, and live bands requires compliance with decibel limits and quiet hours; Shoreline Amphitheatre operates under a separate ...
Mountain View, CA
Industrial and commercial properties in Mountain View must comply with stationary noise source limits measured at property lines, with conditions enforced th...
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View Chapter 21 sets specific decibel thresholds varying by zoning district and time of day, measured at property lines with standardized equipment.
Mountain View, CA
Mountain View requires EV charging infrastructure in new construction under CALGreen Tier 2. Residential EV installations follow expedited permitting per AB ...
Mountain View, CA
RVs, trailers, and boats in Mountain View cannot park on public streets over 72 hours and face Large Vehicle Ordinance limits. Residential storage must be on...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle garage sale rules.
See how Mountain View's garage sale rules rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.