The Truth About Leaving Your Christmas Lights Up In Michigan

The magic of Christmas comes through in so many ways.

Yes, being surrounded by family and friends, watching Christmas movies, and getting presents are all about the Christmas magic.

One of the main stars is all of the twinkling lights outside and throughout your home.

However, leaving your lights up after the New Year could potentially get you into trouble, and not just with your neighbors.

Can You Legally Leave Your Christmas Lights Up Year Round In Michigan?

While Michigan does not have a statewide restriction on Christmas lights, certain local cities, towns and homeowners' associations (HOAs) have their stipulations you must follow.

For instance, while many Ann Arbor residents do not agree, the city does have an ordinance that affects the time you can have your lights up.

To combat light pollution, the city of Ann Arbor states that holiday light displays must be turned off between the hours of midnight and 6:00 AM. Also, the lights can only be up for 90 days.

⬇️ BELOW: When Should You Take Down Your Christmas Lights in Michigan? ⬇️

As for businesses and non-residential buildings, they have to comply with restrictions that do not allow light movement and flashing.

Plus, if the Christmas lights are not designed for year-round usage, the lights could wear out and become a safety hazard for you, your family, and your neighbors.

In 2021, the city of Sterling Heights reminded all of its residents that Christmas lights needed to be down by March 1st. You can only imagine the outrage.

While there is no real-time limit or restriction, the National Fire Protection Association's National Electric Code states that temporary holiday lights should only be left up for a maximum of 90 days.

So, while you love your lights, it may not be in your best interest to keep them up too long.

Before you get too attached to your holiday décor, make sure to check your local rules and ordinances.