Madison, AL Sign Regulations: Garage Sale Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Category
- Temporary yard sign
- Max size (residential)
- 6 square feet
- Max height
- 6 feet
- Permit needed
- Only over 12 sq ft
- Right-of-way
- Not allowed
Summary
A garage-sale sign in Madison is a temporary yard sign: up to 6 square feet and 6 feet tall in residential zones, not illuminated, and never placed in a public right-of-way. No permit is needed under 12 square feet.
Unless otherwise stated, a sign permit for temporary signs shall be required for temporary signs that exceed 12 square feet. Unless otherwise specifically stated, temporary signs shall not be illuminated. No temporary sign may be located in a public right-of-way except as provided for in Section 9-8-7.
Full Breakdown
Madison's Zoning Ordinance regulates signs by type rather than message, so a yard-sale sign falls under the temporary yard sign rules in Section 9-12. Each individual sign may be up to 6 square feet in a residential district and no more than 6 feet tall. Temporary signs may not be illuminated (Sec. 9-12-1.C), may not require a foundation or wiring, and may not be placed in a public right-of-way. A sign permit is required only when a temporary sign exceeds 12 square feet, so ordinary garage-sale signs need no permit. Signs must be kept in good condition and secured against wind. Removing signs promptly after the sale avoids nuisance-sign complaints.
Violations & Fines
Signs left in the right-of-way, on utility poles, or beyond size limits can be removed by the City and may draw code-enforcement notices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put garage-sale signs on street corners?
Do I need a permit for a yard-sale sign?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison
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Garage Sale Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Madison County handle garage sale signs.