Glendale, CA Holiday Decorations: Holiday Light Rules (2026)

Glendale is one of the few California cities that specifically regulates residential and commercial holiday illumination through its Nonessential Energy Use ordinance, GMC Chapter 13.48. The ordinance is rooted in Glendale Water & Power's history as the municipal electric utility — Title 13 covers public utility rates and energy-use restrictions. Chapter 13.48 generally curtails decorative and nonessential lighting at residences and businesses, but expressly carves out Christmas decorations during the period from Thanksgiving Day through New Year's Day: decorations may be illuminated between sunset and one-half hour after business closing (or midnight, whichever is later). Outside this window, decorative seasonal lighting becomes subject to the broader nonessential-energy curtailment provisions. Separately, GMC Chapter 30.33 (Signs) limits string lights used for commercial purposes outside the November 1 – January 15 holiday season — commercial string lights are not permitted year-round. Amplified outdoor audio accompanying displays must comply with Glendale's noise ordinance (GMC Title 8) — residential nighttime limits typically restrict plainly audible amplified sound after 10 p.m. Light that is directed into bedroom windows or causes disturbing glare can be cited under nuisance provisions. California Civil Code §4710 prevents HOAs from banning religious door displays smaller than 3 inches square. Properties in Historic Districts may face additional Cultural Heritage Commission review for permanent attachments.