Portland's Title 32 (Signs and Related Regulations) permits temporary holiday displays on private residential property without a sign permit. Seasonal decorations and holiday lighting are generally exempt from sign regulations as they are considered temporary decorative features rather than signs.
Holiday displays and seasonal decorations on private property are not regulated as signs under Title 32 unless they include commercial advertising. Residential holiday lighting does not require permits. Displays should not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular sight lines. Electrical displays must comply with applicable electrical codes. Displays on commercial properties may be subject to different standards if they include commercial messaging.
Holiday displays that create safety hazards (obstructing sight lines or creating electrical hazards) may be subject to code enforcement. Commercial advertising disguised as holiday displays may require sign permits.
Portland, OR
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