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Q&AZ: Is it legal to put holiday lights on your car in Arizona?

A vehicle wrapped in holday lights.
Gilbert C.
A vehicle wrapped in holday lights.

Holiday lights are everywhere this time of year. But Arizona police say drivers should think twice before illuminating their cars.

State law regulates how much lighting can be on a car, where it’s placed and even what color it can be.

Scottsdale police Detective Aaron Bolin says drivers need to make sure their attempts to be festive don’t become a violation.

“It is sort of a trend that's happening that most people don't mean any ill intent by this, right? They are just trying to just be extra merry and cheery about the holidays that are coming. But again it is something that could become a legal issue," he said.

Lights on cars can be a distraction not only to the driver, but to other motorists on the road.

Bolin says police are focused on stopping drivers who create safety hazards or may be trying to imitate law enforcement.

“Our main goal is not going to be to stop people who are just decorating their vehicles for fun," he said.

Bolin says people can still put festive magnets or stickers on their car as long as they don’t create a visual obstruction.

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Ignacio Ventura is a reporter for KJZZ. He graduated from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in creative writing and a minor in news media and society.