Chicago does not require a city-wide garage sale permit, but it limits residents to 2 sales per year. One unusual Chicago-specific rule: you must keep a list of all items sold for 72 hours after the sale. This anti-theft ordinance originated as a way to help police recover stolen goods. No permit, no fee — but keep that list.
Chicago, IL Garage Sale Rules at a Glance
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Permit required? | No |
| Permit fee | Free |
| Annual limit | 2/yr |
| Maximum duration | No duration limit |
| Sign rules | No sign rules city-wide; ward rules may vary |
Frequently Asked Questions
No — the City of Chicago does not require a permit for residential garage sales. However, you are limited to 2 sales per calendar year at the same address.
Chicago's ordinance requires sellers to maintain a list of sold items for 72 hours after the sale. This is an anti-fencing ordinance designed to help police trace stolen property. It's rarely enforced for casual sellers but is technically on the books.
Individual wards can have additional rules, but the city-wide rule (no permit required, 2/yr limit) is the baseline for all 77 community areas and 50 wards.
Chicago suburbs are separate municipalities with their own rules. Evanston, Oak Park, Cicero, and other suburbs each have independent ordinances — check your specific suburb.