Garage sale signs may be posted on private property during an active sale but are prohibited on utility poles, trees, and in the public right-of-way. Signs must be removed immediately after the sale.
Palo Alto treats garage sale signs as temporary non-commercial signs under its sign code. Homeowners may post directional garage sale signs on their own private property during an active sale. Signs may not be attached to utility poles, streetlights, traffic signs, trees, or placed in the parkstrip or other public right-of-way; such signs constitute illegal posting and can be removed by Public Works without notice. Signs on private property with the owners permission are generally allowed but must not exceed approximately four to six square feet and must be placed so they do not obstruct sight lines at driveways or intersections. Signs must be removed promptly when the sale ends (commonly within 24 hours); leaving old signs up constitutes blight. Repeat violations can result in administrative citations. Using nails, staples, or tape that damage public fixtures can lead to additional fines. Contact Code Enforcement at (650) 329-2100 with questions.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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