Smyrna, GA Holiday Decorations: Lawn Ornament Rules (2026)

Section 82-3(2) of the Smyrna Code exempts seasonal displays and decorations located within the city from sign permits and from the limitations of the sign ordinance. The list names Halloween, July 4th, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Easter, and the text says it is not limited to those holidays. One condition applies: the seasonal displays and decorations cannot contain commercial messages. Section 82-3(2) itself prints no size, count or take-down date.

The exemption sits against a broad definition. Section 82-2 defines a sign to include any letter, figure, character, design, poster, pictorial or picture used for the attraction of the public, indoors or outdoors, so long as it is visible from a sidewalk, public street or right-of-way. The exemption is written for seasonal displays and decorations, and nothing in section 82-3(2) speaks to year-round ornaments.

Residential lots carry a tight sign rule. Section 82-16(1) says no signage other than house number, historic marker, original house designation, street identification number, subdivision entrance/development sign, standard informational sign, yard sale sign, ground based monument sign, or instructional sign is allowed on any residential property or development in the city. Section 82-12(3) separately prohibits commercial signs in residential districts. A holiday display that carries a business message therefore loses the exemption and is judged under those rules. Chapter 82 is administered by the Community Development Department, its designee, any code enforcement officer, or other personnel the governing authority authorizes under section 82-17.