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

Pasadena's Zoning Code (PMC Title 17) and Sign Code (PMC Chapter 17.48 - Signs) regulate signage and on-site commercial displays but do not restrict residential holiday decorative lighting. There is no citywide installation date, no required removal deadline, and no maximum number of lights or wattage cap in the Municipal Code as of the date of this article. Standard practice in Pasadena is November through mid-January, but residents may keep lights up longer without violating any code. Pasadena's Landmark Districts and individually designated historic properties under PMC Chapter 17.62 are subject to design review for permanent alterations — temporary holiday lights that do not require new electrical fixture installation, drilling into historic fabric, or alteration of character-defining features do not require a Certificate of Appropriateness. However, permanent in-eave channel light systems or permanently mounted RGB systems may trigger review in Landmark Districts. Light trespass — excessively bright displays that shine into a neighbor's bedroom windows or impair driver vision — can be addressed under PMC §8.50 (general nuisance provisions) and California Civil Code §3479. Electrical safety follows the California Electrical Code adopted in PMC Title 14: outdoor displays must use UL-listed outdoor-rated lights, GFCI-protected circuits, and proper weatherproof connections. Pasadena Water and Power may issue advisories during stage-driven energy alerts.