Des Plaines, IL Sign Regulations: Holiday Displays (2026)

Des Plaines does not regulate the substance of residential holiday decorations, which are protected expressive uses of private property. Holiday lights, inflatable displays, religious decorations, and seasonal yard art are generally permitted without permits when located on private property. Practical limits include: displays may not encroach into the public right-of-way (parkway, sidewalk, street); extension cords may not run across public sidewalks creating trip hazards; displays may not obstruct sight triangles at intersections or driveways for traffic safety; outdoor electrical use should follow National Electrical Code requirements with GFCI protection and outdoor-rated cords; and displays must comply with the underlying noise and lighting nuisance standards. Many municipalities limit how long holiday lighting may remain after the holiday (commonly 30-60 days), but enforcement is typically complaint-driven. Displays causing significant light trespass into a neighbor's bedroom window or other living area may be subject to nuisance enforcement under the City's general nuisance provisions.