Cary has no zoning, building, or sign-code rule specifically targeting residential inflatable holiday displays. The LDO does not treat temporary seasonal decorations as regulated signs. Practical limits come from HOA covenants, Cary Code Chapter 22 (noise) for blower-motor sound, LDO sight-triangle setbacks at intersections, and NC HB 488 (2023) which modernized rules for certain small accessory structures but does not regulate temporary inflatables.
At single-family residential properties in Cary, inflatable holiday displays are not regulated by the LDO, the building code, or the sign code, provided they are temporary and not permanently affixed to the ground. There is no town-imposed maximum height cap or square-footage limit on temporary residential decorations. Practical limits include: (1) HOA covenants in Cary's deed-restricted subdivisions, which often cap inflatable heights at 8-12 ft, require approval for front-yard items, or limit the duration of display; (2) Cary Code Chapter 22 (Noise) - blower-motor noise must remain within reasonable residential limits; most modern inflatables emit 40-50 dBA continuous, generally compliant but close to typical nighttime expectations near sleeping rooms; (3) LDO sight-triangle requirements at intersections - items over 3 ft tall in front yards near corner intersections may violate the visibility triangle in the LDO; (4) NC HB 488 (2023, S.L. 2023-108) modernized building-code requirements for certain small accessory structures (sheds under specified size thresholds) but does not regulate temporary inflatables. Items placed in the public right-of-way (the strip between sidewalk and street, or any dedicated right-of-way) require an encroachment authorization and are subject to removal if installed without permission. Commercial inflatable advertising at retail properties is regulated as a sign under the LDO.
No specific town violation for residential inflatables. Noise violations under Chapter 22 cited if blower noise is confirmed at the receiving property line. Right-of-way encroachment is cited under Cary's streets and rights-of-way provisions with removal at owner expense. HOA enforcement is private civil action.
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