Spokane allows residential holiday decorations and lights without permits. Displays must not obstruct sidewalks or create safety hazards. Commercial electrical connections require licensed installation per the Washington Electrical Code.
Holiday lights and seasonal displays are not regulated as signs in Spokane, and residential displays are permitted without any permit under SMC 17C.240. Displays must not project into the public right-of-way, must not obstruct sight-distance triangles at corners, and must not produce excessive glare toward neighbors or streets. Power cords must not cross sidewalks at grade. Inflatable decorations must be secured against wind. For commercial properties and elaborate residential light installations hooked to non-standard circuits, a licensed electrician must make the connections under the Washington Electrical Code (WAC 296-46B). Fire safety requires using outdoor-rated lighting, keeping cords in good condition, and avoiding placement near flammable materials. Live Christmas trees must be disposed of through the Clean Green program or the Boy Scouts annual curbside tree recycling event.
Obstruction violations: $50-$100 if not corrected. Electrical work without licensed contractor: $500+ Labor & Industries penalty.
Spokane, WA
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