Travis County, TX Sign Regulations: Holiday Displays (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit
- Not required
- Light Limit
- No nuisance glare
- Sound
- Subject to quiet hours
- Quiet Hours
- 10 PM-7 AM Austin
- HOA
- May restrict timing
Summary
Holiday decorations and displays are permitted in Travis County and Austin without permit, provided they do not create traffic hazards, encroach on public right-of-way, or violate noise/light ordinances. HOA restrictions are common.
Sec. 202.012. FLAG DISPLAY. (a) A property owners' association may not, except as provided in this section, adopt or enforce a dedicatory instrument provision that prohibits, restricts, or has the effect of prohibiting or restricting an owner from the display of:(1) the flag of the United States of America;(2) the flag of the State of Texas; or(3) an official or replica flag of any branch of the United States armed forces.(b) A property owners' association may adopt or enforce reasonable dedicatory instrument provisions:(1) that require:(A) the flag of the United States be displayed in accordance with 4 U.S.C. Sections 5-10;(B) the flag of the State of Texas be displayed in accordance with Chapter 3100, Government Code.
Full Breakdown
Neither Travis County nor Austin restricts residential holiday decorations. Austin City Code Chapter 25-10 exempts holiday displays from temporary sign permitting. Displays may not be illuminated so brightly as to constitute a nuisance (Austin §9-2, outdoor lighting). Inflatables and moving displays must be secured to prevent blowing into roadways. HOAs may restrict timing (typically allowing displays 30 days before and 14 days after major holidays). Music or amplified sound from displays is subject to Austin's 10 PM-7 AM quiet hours and the 85 dBA residential limit.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
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