Holiday decorations on private property need no permit. Displays allowed 45 days before to 30 days after a holiday. Electrical displays must meet NEC standards.
Holiday displays on private residential property are generally treated as temporary decorations under the Montgomery County Code and are not subject to sign permit requirements. Displays may be erected up to 45 days before a holiday period and should be removed within 30 days after. There is no specific square footage limit for decorations that are not commercial signs. Electrical displays must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) as adopted by Montgomery County. Extension cords used outdoors must be rated for outdoor use. Inflatable displays and lighting should not obstruct sidewalks or create traffic visibility hazards. HOAs in the county may have stricter rules on display timing and type. Sound-producing displays must comply with Chapter 31B noise limits (55 dBA nighttime at the property line).
No specific fines for holiday displays unless they violate electrical code, noise ordinance, or create a public safety hazard. HOA violations are handled through the association. Noise complaints go through MC311.
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