If You Are Using this Christmas Decoration in Texas You Could Be Breaking the Law

It's Christmas time and houses in Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, DFW, and all over Texas are lit up with decorations.

Get our free mobile app

It's a tradition for a lot of families to decorate their homes with lights and blow-ups, reindeer, and Santa.  However, if you are still using this decoration element you could be breaking the law.

The incandescent light bulb

Many people still use the popular C9 and C7 incandescent light bulbs.

As of August 1, 2023, the Department of Energy started enforcing the ban on incandescent light bulbs. Which means retailers aren't allowed to sell them anymore. 

My house is covered in C9 Christmas lights, and I started stressing out because if they are banned my house just screams, "I'm a rebel, and I'm going to use whatever bulb I want!"

Don't stress like I did.

If you're still using the incandescent Christmas lights, you are safe. According to the Christmas Light Source:

The ban does not apply to all incandescent light bulbs. For example, glass Christmas bulbs are not included in the ban, as they are not considered general-use lamps (bulbs). "General Use Lamps" are bulbs made to go in light fixtures. According to new standards, they have an E26 base and must emit a minimum of 45 lumens per watt.

You don't have to run out and buy all-new Christmas LED lights.   However, it's probably only a matter of time until the ban covers your favorite Christmas lights.

Christmas lights and decorations are awesome don't forget to share them with us!