Denver has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. DRMC Chapter 36 (Noise) governs amplified outdoor displays, DZC Article 10.10 controls outdoor lighting trespass, and HOA covenants set the binding rules. Most residential holiday lighting operates without any permit.
Denver Revised Municipal Code contains no provision setting installation or removal dates for residential holiday lights. DRMC 36-6 sets residential noise limits at 55 dBA (7 AM-10 PM) and 50 dBA at night (10 PM-7 AM), measured at the property line — amplified outdoor music synced with light displays must stay within these limits. DZC Article 10.10 outdoor-lighting standards prohibit light trespass exceeding 0.1 foot-candles measured at the property line of an adjoining residential property; persistent violations can trigger code enforcement under DRMC 59-91. Permanent installation of new exterior outlets or low-voltage transformers requires a Denver Electrical Code permit. Holiday lights are not regulated signs under DZC Article 10.10 unless they incorporate commercial messaging. HOAs typically dictate display dates and brightness through CC&Rs.
Noise-ordinance violations under DRMC 36-15: $150-$999 per offense. Outdoor-lighting violations under DRMC 59-91: NOV with required abatement; continued violations carry $150-$999 daily fines. There are no city-imposed penalties for display-date violations — they are HOA matters.
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