Naperville, IL Sign Regulations: Holiday Displays (2026)
Key Facts
- Wattage cap
- 75 watts or less
- Applies to
- Decorative seasonal lighting
- Above the cap
- Full lighting standards apply
Summary
Naperville exempts decorative seasonal lighting from its general exterior lighting standards, but only if the total power rating stays at or below 75 watts under the zoning code's outdoor lighting rules.
3.5.3. Decorative seasonal lighting shall be limited to a power rating of less than or equal to seventy-five (75) watts.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 101).
Full Breakdown
The City's exterior lighting standards in Section 6-14-4 otherwise regulate fixture height, shielding, and foot-candle limits citywide, but decorative seasonal lighting, the string and holiday lights homeowners put up for Christmas and other seasons, is carved out as an exception. That exception only applies if the display's total power rating stays at or below 75 watts; a seasonal display above that wattage loses the exemption and must meet the full shielding and foot-candle standards that apply to permanent fixtures. The Zoning Administrator enforces the cap as part of the Title 6 performance standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Naperville's holiday lights need a lighting permit?
What happens if my holiday display exceeds 75 watts?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Naperville
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