Seattle, WA Sign Regulations: Holiday Displays (2026)

SMC 15.43.020(C) generally bars attaching ropes, wire, nails, advertisements, or other objects to a street tree, but carves out an exception in subsection (C)(3) for 'decorative or seasonal lighting attached in a manner consistent with the Department of Transportation specifications and that does not permanently damage the street tree or impact mobility.' That exception is capped by SMC 15.43.030(G): decorative or seasonal lighting requires a Street Use permit for use longer than 90 days, or if putting it up or taking it down impacts mobility on the sidewalk or street.

A permit application under SMC 15.43.030(A) goes to the Director of Transportation on City forms, following Sections 15.04.020 and 15.04.025, and the Director may approve, condition, or deny it under 15.43.030(B) and the Street Tree Manual's standards. Because the lighting rule sits inside Chapter 15.43, a permit denial or condition can be challenged through the Director's review process in SMC 15.43.060, filed within 10 calendar days of the decision. Violations of Chapter 15.43, including unpermitted long-term lighting displays or ones that damage a street tree or block mobility, are enforceable through the citation process in Chapter 15.91 and carry the Title 15 civil penalty in SMC 15.90.018(A) of up to $500 per day until the display is brought into compliance or removed.