Auburn vs Federal Way
How do holiday displays rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn permits seasonal holiday lights and displays on residential property without a permit. Displays must avoid creating a traffic sight hazard or excessive light trespass onto neighbors.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way does not restrict seasonal holiday lights, inflatables, or decorations on private residential property. Displays must comply with electrical safety codes and not obstruct sidewalks or the right-of-way.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Not required for residential displays | - |
| Noise | Quiet hours apply per ACC 8.28 | - |
| Placement | Private property, not ROW | - |
| Electrical | Must meet NEC outdoor standards | Must meet NEC, FWRC Title 13 |
| Sign Code | - | Exempts seasonal decorations |
| Sound Limit | - | 55 dBA day, 45 dBA night |
| HOAs | - | May impose private rules |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need a permit for Christmas lights in Auburn?
No permit or fee is required for residential holiday lights or seasonal displays in Auburn. Just keep them on your property and follow electrical safety rules.
How late can my Auburn music-synced light show run?
Music must comply with ACC Chapter 8.28 noise limits and generally turn off by 10:00 PM. Repeated late-night noise complaints can result in an infraction.
Federal Way FAQ
Does Federal Way have a deadline for taking down Christmas lights?
No. Federal Way has no ordinance requiring holiday lights to come down by a certain date. Leaving them up year-round is not a code violation, though neighbors may complain informally.
Can my neighbor complain about my Halloween display?
Only if it crosses into the public right-of-way, creates a fire hazard, or emits noise above the 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night limits under FWRC Title 7. Otherwise, decorations on private property are protected.
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