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

Modesto Municipal Code contains no provision specifying installation or removal dates for residential holiday lights, and no city ordinance regulates the brightness, color, hours of operation, or animation of residential holiday lighting. The city's general nuisance authority under MMC Title 4 and the Property Maintenance Code at MMC 9-9.509 reach only displays so dilapidated or unmaintained that they create a public nuisance. Cal. Veh. Code section 21466.5 preempts the field on glare creating a hazard to drivers - lights that cause traffic hazards may be cited under state law, not city ordinance. Holiday lights strung across a public sidewalk, street, or city tree require an encroachment permit from Modesto Public Works under MMC Title 7 (Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Places). Commercial holiday displays that include letters, logos, or commercial messages remain regulated as signs under MMC Title 10 - pure decorative lighting at a commercial property is generally exempt. Permanent installation of new exterior outlets or low-voltage transformer wiring requires a Modesto electrical permit. HOA CC&Rs may impose stricter rules; the city does not enforce HOA covenants.