No Fee - Permit Required
A permit is required for every garage sale conducted within the City of Tavares. Free permits are available online.
City of Tavares • Ordinance 2025-10 effective January 16, 2026
Garage Sale Permits & Regulations
The City of Tavares now requires a no-fee permit for all garage sales held within city limits. Ordinance 2025-10 also sets limits on how often sales may be held and establishes penalties for violations.
Garage Sale Rules at a Glance
Limit Per Year
Each residence or household may hold up to four (4) garage sales per calendar year (January 1 through December 31).
Days & Hours
Sales may last up to three (3) consecutive days and are limited to daylight hours, ending no later than 7:00 p.m.
About Ordinance 2025-10
Ordinance 2025-10 amends Chapter 10.5, Article IV – Garage Sale Regulations of the City Code of Ordinances. The ordinance establishes a no-fee permit requirement for garage sales, confirms limits on the number of sales allowed per property, and creates a penalty schedule for violations. The ordinance takes effect thirty (30) days after its final adoption by the Tavares City Council.
- No-fee permit required for each garage sale.
- Maximum of four (4) garage sales per property per calendar year.
- Sales limited to daylight hours, not to exceed 7:00 p.m., for no more than three (3) consecutive days.
- Penalties apply for violations of the garage sale regulations.
How to Apply for a Garage Sale Permit
Submit an Application
Apply online using the form linked above, or visit City Hall during business hours to complete a paper application.
Provide Sale Details
Include your property address, the dates and times of your sale, and your contact information.
Review the Rules
Confirm that you understand the limits on the number of sales, hours of operation, and any sign requirements.
Receive Your Permit
Once approved, you will receive a permit by email or in person. Display it in a visible location during your sale.
Note: There is currently no fee for a garage sale permit; however, a permit is required before holding a sale.
Penalties for Violations
Violations of the City of Tavares garage sale regulations are subject to the following penalties under Ordinance 2025-10:
| Violation Number | Penalty |
|---|---|
| First violation | Verbal warning |
| Second violation | $150.00 fine |
| Third violation | $250.00 fine |
| All subsequent violations | $250.00 fine per violation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small, one-day garage sale?
Yes. A permit is required for every garage sale conducted within the City of Tavares, regardless of size.
How many garage sales can I have in a year?
You may hold up to four (4) garage sales per property per calendar year.
What hours can I operate my sale?
Garage sales must be held during daylight hours and may not continue past 7:00 p.m.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please contact the City of Tavares Police Department – Code Enforcement at (352) 742-6419 or email Christopher.McCormick@TavaresFL.gov
Documents & Resources
- Ordinance 2025-10 – Garage Sale Regulations (PDF)
- Garage Sale Staff Report – July 2, 2025 (PDF)
- Planning & Zoning Board Minutes – November 20, 2025 (PDF)
- City Council Minutes – Garage Sale Ordinance Public Hearing (PDF)
Need Assistance?
City of Tavares Police Department – Code Enforcement
Phone: (352) 742-6419
Email: Christopher.McCormick@TavaresFL.gov