Do You Need a Permit to Have a Garage Sale in Michigan?

Garage sale season is officially here in Michigan, and if you're planning to clean out the basement, attic, or the house in general and make a few bucks while you're at it, there's something you need to know before you get started.

While I’ve never been a huge fan of buying other people’s junk, I know how easy it is to spot something in a driveway and suddenly convince yourself it’s a hidden gem. That’s the kind of awesome energy you’re hoping to attract with your own sale.

But before you grab your price tags, post all over social media, and start putting up garage sale signs, there’s one important question you need to answer:

Do You Need a Permit to Have a Garage Sale in Michigan?

I’ll be honest—this has never once crossed my mind that someone might need a permit to have a garage sale here.

See Also: 12 Items You Should Never Buy From a Michigan Garage Sale

I mean, who even thinks about permits when you’re just trying to unload some old stuff, right? But in Michigan, it’s actually a thing, at least depending on where you live. Some cities want you to get a permit, maybe pay a small fee, and follow a few lame rules. Others don’t care as long as you don’t go overboard with the number of sales or how long they last.

In Genesee County, places like Flint, Fenton, and Burton usually want you to get a permit for garage sales, there’s usually a small fee, and limits on how many you can have. Same deal in spots like Redford Township, Garden City, and even Grand Rapids.

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So, whatever Michigan town you’re in, check with city hall, your township office, or your local clerk before you start selling, or you might get slapped with a fine.

Imagine how mad you would be if you put in all the work that is needed to put together a garage sale, only to have it shut down. Oh man, I would be livid.