Houston, TX Sign Regulations: Garage Sale Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- On Public Property
- Prohibited (bandit sign)
- Fine
- $300-$500 per violation per day
- On Private Property
- Generally allowed; check deed restrictions
- Enforcement
- Department of Neighborhoods; Houston Public Works
- Reporting
- Call 3-1-1 or Houston 3-1-1 app
Summary
Houston prohibits placing garage sale signs on public property under the bandit sign provisions of Chapter 28 and Chapter 46 (Sign Code). Signs on public streets, sidewalks, utility poles, and rights-of-way are subject to impoundment and fines of $300-$500.
Sec. 394.022. ISSUANCE OF PERMIT. (a) The commission shall issue a permit to a person:(1) whose application complies with commission rule;(2) whose sign, if erected, would comply with the requirements of this chapter; and(3) who, if the off-premise sign is located within the jurisdiction of a municipality with a population of more than 1.9 million that is exercising its authority to regulate off-premise signs, has obtained a permit for the off-premise sign.(b) Subsection (a)(3) does not apply to the relocation of an off-premise sign to another location if the construction, reconstruction, or expansion of a highway requires the removal of the off-premise sign. Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.Amended by: Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1083 (H.B. 2944), Sec. 3, eff.
Full Breakdown
Garage sale signs placed on public property are classified as 'bandit signs' by the City of Houston. It is unlawful to paint, print, post, or display any advertising matter on curbs, sidewalks, utility poles, or other public areas. The Department of Neighborhoods and Houston Public Works are authorized to impound signs found on public streets, sidewalks, or alleys. Violations carry fines of $300-$500, with each day constituting a separate offense. Garage sale signs on the homeowner's private property are generally permitted subject to any deed restrictions. Residents can report suspected bandit signs by calling 3-1-1 or using the Houston 3-1-1 mobile app.
Violations & Fines
Placing garage sale signs on public property: $300-$500 fine per day. Signs may be impounded. Court appearances and warrants possible for repeat offenders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put garage sale signs on the street corner in Houston?
Where can I put garage sale signs in Houston?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
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Garage Sale Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle garage sale signs.