Moses Lake enforcing yard signs ordinance

Leaving signs after sale could cost $475

MOSES LAKE — Leaving a yard sale sign out after the sale is over could cost $475 for littering.

The city of Moses Lake code enforcement department reminds the public to take down signs after a yard sale is over and keep them off of sidewalks, said code enforcement officer Levi Bisnett.

"As of right now, no sign permits are required," Bisnett noted. "However, if sidewalks continue to be cluttered with abandoned signs, garage sales may be regulated and permits would be required."

Bisnett said signs should not be placed on sidewalks, as they can obstruct pedestrians and bike riders.

"A large garage sale sign may impair motorists' line of sight while entering traffic," Bisnett added. "Any sign found obstructing a clear view of traffic will be removed."

Signs cannot be attached to utility poles or street signs.

"Any signs attached to utility poles or street signs will be removed immediately and persons may be given a $250 fine on site. This also applies to signs on sidewalks which impose a safety hazard," said Bisnett. "The rules have existed for quite some time, yet it is not the intentions of the city to impose the aforementioned fines. We want to avoid imposing fines and help people learn and be responsible."

City Manager Joe Gavinski said yard sale sign ordinance enforcement is part of the routine duties of code enforcement officers. At certain times of the year, there is more yard sale activity, which could make it appear as if increased enforcement is happening, Gavinski said.

"The enforcement issue with regard to yard sales goes back a long time," he said.