Spokane, WA Holiday Decorations: Holiday Light Rules (2026)

Spokane Municipal Code does not regulate the timing, intensity, or duration of holiday lights on private homes. The sign code at SMC Chapter 17C.240 exempts temporary holiday and seasonal displays. Spokane does not have a comprehensive residential outdoor lighting ordinance for holiday lights (SMC 17C.110 outdoor lighting standards apply to permanent fixtures, not seasonal displays). For Spokane's HOA-governed communities (notably Five Mile Prairie, Eagle Ridge, Indian Trail, South Hill, and condominium associations near Browne's Addition), Washington's Homeowners' Association Act (RCW 64.38) and the Washington Condominium Act (RCW 64.34) apply, and CC&Rs typically regulate holiday displays. Typical Spokane HOA rules allow holiday lights from the Friday before Thanksgiving through January 15, prohibit lights left up year-round, limit roof-mounted spotlights and laser projectors, and may restrict synchronized music or animated displays. RCW 64.38.030 limits HOA fines to amounts authorized in the governing documents. Washington has no statute equivalent to California's HOA flag-display protections. Lights that shine continuously into a neighbor's bedroom window can be pursued as a private nuisance under Washington common law and may trigger Spokane Code Enforcement under SMC Chapter 10.08C (Chronic Nuisance) when complaints persist. Lights or wiring not meeting the National Electrical Code (adopted under SMC Chapter 17F.040) can be cited as a fire hazard.