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Outdoor Christmas Decor: Wreaths, Garland and Yard Decor Safely

Updated November 1, 2026 · General information, not electrical or safety advice

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The short answer: Choose decor labeled for outdoor use, and flame-resistant or flame-retardant. Plug any lit decor into a GFCI-protected circuit, keep connectors off the ground and out of snow, and follow the maker's instructions. This page names product types only, no brands or prices.

Safety first. Use only lights and cords rated for outdoor use, plug them into a GFCI-protected outlet, keep ladders and light strands at least 10 feet from overhead power lines, and have a helper. Hire a licensed electrician for any wiring or new outlet. See our safety guide. This reminder is ours; the sourced details are on that page.

What the sources say

Outdoor-rated. South Carolina's fire safety program says outside cords and decorations should be rated for outdoor use.
Flame-resistant. It says all decorations should be flame-resistant or flame-retardant. The CPSC says to choose artificial trees labeled fire resistant.
GFCI. Outdoor lights and inflatable decorations should be on circuits protected by GFCI (South Carolina).
Follow the maker's instructions for all lights and decorations (South Carolina).
Candles. The CPSC says never to leave candles unattended and to use flameless candles whenever possible.
Don't overload outlets (CPSC and South Carolina).

Types of outdoor decor

Type	What to check
Wreaths and garland	Outdoor rating on the package; if pre-lit, the lights' rating and plug type.
Pre-lit trees and yard figures	Outdoor rating, flame-resistant label, GFCI outlet. See cords and timers.
Pathway and stake lights	Outdoor rating; solar ones need sun. See solar lights.
Inflatables	See inflatables.

Product types only. We have not tested or ranked any product.

Plan lights first with the calculator, then add decor around them.

Looking for more decor?

Wreaths, garland, yard decor and tools are sold at home-improvement stores. Check each item is rated for outdoor use if it will be outside.

Shop holiday decor Plan your lights first

Common questions

What should I look for in outdoor Christmas decorations?

South Carolina's fire safety program says to use decorations rated for outdoor use that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant, and to follow the maker's instructions.

Do lit yard decorations need a GFCI outlet?

South Carolina's fire safety program says outdoor lights and inflatable decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by GFCI.

Related guides

Sources