Palm Springs permits holiday decorations and seasonal lighting on private property without a permit for displays of ordinary size. Displays must not create traffic hazards, noise nuisance, or violate the city's dark-sky outdoor lighting ordinance (PSMC 93.21). Seasonal lighting is typically allowed from late November through January.
Holiday and seasonal decorations, including Christmas lights, inflatable figures, menorahs, Diwali displays, and Halloween decor, are generally permitted on private residential and commercial property without special permits. Palm Springs has no specific ordinance restricting holiday displays by type or duration, though general rules still apply: decorations cannot block sidewalks or sight triangles at driveways and intersections, cannot produce noise that violates PSMC noise standards (amplified music or animated displays), and should avoid creating traffic-stopping spectacles that impede public safety. The city's dark-sky outdoor lighting ordinance (PSMC 93.21) technically exempts seasonal holiday lighting displayed between November 15 and January 15, but strobing or flashing lights directed off-site may still draw complaints. Large commercial displays may require temporary sign permits if they include commercial messaging. HOAs commonly impose their own rules on duration, color, and type of decorations. Displays that attract large crowds to residential streets can trigger traffic control requirements. Permanent architectural lighting changes associated with holidays must comply with 93.21 year-round.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Palm Springs code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle holiday displays.
See how Palm Springs's holiday displays rules stack up against other locations.
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