How to Obtain a Garage Sale Permit in San Antonio: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to host a garage or yard sale in San Antonio? You’ll need to obtain a garage/yard sale permit. Whether it’s a casual sale or an estate sale, the process is straightforward, but there are important rules to follow. Here’s a foolproof guide to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Why You Need a Permit
A garage/yard sale permit is required for all residential garage or yard sales within San Antonio city limits. This applies to all premises zoned or used for residential purposes. Estate sales must also adhere to these guidelines.

Sale Duration and Frequency
– Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
– Maximum Duration: 2 consecutive days
– Annual Limit: You can hold up to four garage/yard sales per calendar year on each property, but no more than one per quarter. For example:
– January-March: 1 sale
– April-June: 1 sale
– July-September: 1 sale
– October-December: 1 sale

Where to Purchase Your Permit
The permit costs $16 and can be purchased through one of the following methods:
– Online: Visit the San Antonio city website to purchase your permit online.
– In-Person:
– Development Services Department (One Stop Center), 1901 S. Alamo, San Antonio, TX 78204
– H-E-B Grocery (Participating Stores Only)

Permits purchased at the Development Services Department include two decals for off-premise signs.

Special Offer: Fourth Permit Free
If you hold three garage/yard sales in a calendar year, you can obtain your fourth permit for free by bringing the receipts from the first three permits to the Development Services Department at 1901 S. Alamo.

Signage Regulations
You are allowed three signs to advertise your garage sale:
– One Sign: At the location of the sale.
– Two Signs: Off-premise, using the decals provided with the permit.
– Size Limitation: Signs cannot be larger than 6 square feet.
– Timing: Signs can be posted up to two days before the sale.

Important: Signs posted in public rights-of-way (e.g., utility poles, street signs) are prohibited and considered a misdemeanor offense. These signs may be removed without notice. All signs must be removed upon the permit’s expiration.

Prohibited Sale Items
The following items cannot be sold at your garage/yard sale:
– Glue
– Live animals
– Aerosol paints
– Guns and ammunition
– Food items (unless a food sales permit is obtained from the City Health Department)

No Permit Needed for Small Sales
If you’re selling five items or less, you do not need a permit.

What to Do in Case of Bad Weather
If bad weather interrupts your garage/yard sale, you can request a replacement permit within one week of the original permit’s issue date. The replacement will allow you to complete your sale within 30 days. Only one replacement permit per year is allowed.

Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations, churches, and charities can register to hold up to 12 sales per year (one per month). Registration must be done in person at the Development Services Department. Organizations must still purchase a permit for each sale, but the proceeds must benefit the organization.

To register, bring:
– A letter on organization letterhead with name, address, contact information, and Tax ID Number
– A copy of the non-profit exemption letter from the IRS

Final Tips
Always post the permit in plain view during the sale, and follow the city’s regulations to avoid fines. For any additional questions, contact Development Services at (210) 207-1111.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your garage sale is fully compliant and a successful event!