Garage sale signs in DC may be placed on private property without a permit but are prohibited on public property, utility poles, and street signs. Signs must not obstruct sidewalks or create traffic hazards.
DC permits temporary signs on private property for events like garage sales without requiring a permit. However, signs placed in public space (sidewalks, medians, public rights-of-way) are regulated by DDOT and generally require a public space permit. Posting signs on utility poles, traffic signs, or public trees is prohibited. Temporary signs should be removed promptly after the sale ends. The DC Municipal Regulations (24 DCMR) govern the placement and maintenance of signs in public space. Sandwich board signs on sidewalks require a permit and a $50 fee.
Signs on public property without a permit may be removed by DDOT. Fines may be issued for signs posted on utility poles or public structures. Repeated violations may result in increased penalties.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Washington's garage sale signs rules stack up against other locations.
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