The Sturgis Board of Aldermen earlier this month passed an ordinance that places new regulations on garage and yard sales for those living within the city limits.
Sturgis Mayor Billy Blankenship told the Starkville Daily News the board felt it was time to set guidelines by which garage and yard sales would be conducted.
“We have had numerous complaints from the public concerning yard sales which appear to be a daily business,” Blankenship said. “We reviewed many ordinances which other municipalities have in force. Our Board Attorney acted upon the request of the board members and the Ordinance was approved by a unanimous vote.”
The new regulations restrict sales time, while requiring a permit.
The ordinance states residents living in a single family residence may conduct a garage or yard sale, but can’t conduct them more frequently than every 90 days.
Additionally, no business may conduct a yard sale or an outdoor sale, except by special event permit.
All garage sales will also now require a permit with a $25 price tag, with the town clerk keeping a record of permits issued on file for 180 days.
The ordinance says no permit shall be issued more frequently than every 90 days.
A special permit for an outdoor sale at a “town declared event” will cost $150.
The permits will authorize the sale, generally for a weekend, not exceeding two days.
No garage or yard sales will be allowed on Sundays.
Failure to purchase a permit could result in a misdemeanor charge.