Holding a garage sale in Springfield? Here are some rules to know

Tony Madden, Springfield News-Leader

Spring has sprung, and with springtime comes garage sale season.

Whether you're preparing for a big move or cleaning out the garage for some extra space, garage sales can be a great way to get rid of excess closet items, toys, home decor, and, other miscellaneous "junk." They're equally fun for garage-sale shoppers hunting for antiques and vintage clothes. But make sure your sale doesn't get you into hot water with the city of Springfield.

Here are a few frequently asked questions about holding a garage sale in the Queen City:

Who do I need to contact before holding a garage sale in Springfield?

Contact the City of Springfield Finance Department's licensing division at (417) 864-1617 to register your garage sale with the city. The permit is free, but it must be obtained before your garage sale begins.

How do I apply for a garage sale permit?

You must create an account with the Springfield eCity portal to apply for a garage sale permit online. After clicking "Register for a Garage Sale," you must:

  • Provide a description of the sale and your role for the request

  • Add the homeowner, contractor, and/or other contacts as "extra contacts"

  • Provide the site/property address of the sale

  • Provide the date of the sale and number of days (up to three)

Am I allowed to advertise my garage sale?

Garage sale signs may be placed in your yard or in your neighbor's yard (with their permission). They should not however, be placed in the city's right-of-way (on streets signs, utility poles, between the sidewalk and the curb, etc.). Garage sale signs should also not look like traffic signs.

Do I have to pay taxes or fees on a garage sale?

No, there are no taxes or fees associated with having a garage sale in Springfield.

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Is there a limit to how many sales I can have?

Yes, the limit is two garage sales within a 12-month period. Garage sales can last up to 3 days.

What can I sell?

You may legally sell your own items at your own garage sale. You should sell only used, accumulated items — not items purchased for resale.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Here are the rules for hosting a garage sale in Springfield, Missouri