Englewood vs Hackensack
How do holiday displays rules compare between Englewood, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Englewood and Hackensack have similar restriction levels.
Englewood, NJ
Bergen County
Englewood expressly permits nonpermanent signs and lighting displays celebrating national, state, local, religious, or cultural holidays, while still prohibiting flashing or moving illumination citywide.
View full Englewood rules →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack generally permits residential holiday displays under Chapter 175 zoning without requiring permits. Displays must comply with property line setbacks, lighting, and noise rules to avoid neighbor complaints.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Englewood | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| Display Type Allowed | Nonpermanent holiday signs | - |
| Permit Required | No, exempt category | Generally no |
| Flashing Lights | Prohibited citywide | - |
| Residential Wattage Cap | 150 watts white light | - |
| Code Section | Land Use, Article XV | - |
| Code Reference | - | Chapter 175 and 122 |
| Lighting Glare | - | May trigger nuisance |
| ROW Encroachment | - | Not allowed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Englewood FAQ
Do I need a permit for Christmas or holiday lights?
No. Englewood treats nonpermanent holiday lighting and displays as exempt signage. You can install seasonal decorations without a sign permit, but general illumination rules still apply.
Can my holiday lights flash or change color?
No. Englewood prohibits signs and displays with flashing, blinking, moving, or color-changing lights citywide. Use steady illumination to stay compliant with Article XV.
How bright can my residential holiday display be?
Within a residential district, a sign or display may be illuminated by no more than 150 watts of white light. Multi-color decorations are allowed if not flashing or animated.
Hackensack FAQ
Do I need a permit for Christmas decorations?
No permit is generally required for residential holiday displays in Hackensack, though displays must stay on private property and comply with noise and lighting rules.
Can I play holiday music outdoors?
Outdoor music must comply with Chapter 122 noise rules. Amplified sound during quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM can result in citations and complaints.
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