Garage Sale Information

The term "Garage Sale" means the public sale of new and used goods within the corporate limits of the City of Salem by any individual or group of individuals from any private property.

Sales organized and operated exclusively for religious, educational, philanthropic, benevolent, fraternal, or charitable purposes and are not operated for the profit of its members or shareholders shall be exempt from this definition.

The following guidelines have been established for such sales and are enforced through Zoning and Compliance Services:

1. Garage Sales do not require a permit.
2. A maximum of three (3) garage sales may be held in any calendar year.
3. Each sale is limited to three (3) consecutive days.
4. All sales merchandise must remain on private property.
5. Signage:
   • Maximum signage in square footage is 6 square feet per residence.
   • When lawn signs are used:
     • Lawn signs are no taller than 30 inches in height and no larger in area than six square feet.
     • Lawn signs are normally made out of corrugated plastic, gray board or similar type material and will not withstand much of a wind load.
     • Lawn signs must have the date of intial display posted on the sign.
   • No signs may be attached to utility poles or sign posts.
   • No sign shall be placed in a location which would cause a "traffic vision clearance" problem.
   • All signs must be removed immediately at the close of the sale.