Durham County, NC Sign Regulations: Garage Sale Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- Durham UDO Sec. 11.4.2
- Permit
- None required
- Max size
- 4 square feet
- Number
- One per lot
- Removal
- Within 7 days after sale
Summary
Durham's UDO allows a yard sale sign without a permit. It may not exceed four square feet in area, is limited to one per lot, and may be put up two weeks before the sale and must come down within seven days after it.
Such signs shall not exceed four square feet in area. The sign may be erected up to two weeks prior to the yard sale and shall be removed within seven days after the yard sale.
Full Breakdown
Durham's joint City-County Unified Development Ordinance lets residents post a yard sale sign without a sign permit, and the same rule applies in the City and unincorporated Durham County. Under Section 11.4.2, the sign shall not exceed four square feet in area, and one is allowed per lot. It may be erected up to two weeks prior to the yard sale and must be removed within seven days after the yard sale. Signs must stay on private property with the owner's permission and out of the public right-of-way; signs in the road right-of-way or attached to utility poles, street signs, or trees are prohibited and may be removed. Keep signs clear of driver sightlines at intersections and driveways.
Violations & Fines
A yard sale sign that is oversized, posted too long, placed in the right-of-way, or attached to poles violates UDO Sec. 11.4.2 and may be removed by the City-County. Repeat violations can bring civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a yard sale sign in Durham?
Can I staple a sale sign to a utility pole?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Durham County
Compare Durham County to another location·View the North Carolina sign regulations overview
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