The holidays are coming up, which means many people are getting ready to display their holiday decorations throughout their yards and homes. However, if you live within an HOA community, you’ll want to follow their guidelines for holiday displays, lights, and timeframes for decorations. Today, we will review some of the rules and tips for holiday decorating in HOA communities so you can enjoy the holidays without violating the rules of your HOA.
Contents of This Article:
- Can You Decorate Your Home in an HOA Community?
- HOA Rules and Regulations for Holiday Decorations
- 5 Tips for Holiday Decorating in HOA Communities
- Ensure Compliance With Professional Management
Can You Decorate Your Home in an HOA Community?
Yes, you can typically decorate your home for the holidays while living in an HOA community. However, HOAs typically have rules and regulations regarding holiday decorations and displays that homeowners or tenants must follow. For instance, HOAs often restrict the type of decorations you can use, where you can place them, and the duration they can be up.
It’s important for homeowners, tenants, and Philadelphia property management companies to know about and comply with HOA rules and regulations. So, let’s review some of the common rules for holiday decorating in HOA communities.
HOA Rules and Regulations for Holiday Decorations
HOA rules and regulations for holiday decorating can vary widely depending on the specific community and its governing documents. However, here are some common guidelines and restrictions that you might find in an HOA’s rules regarding holiday decorations.
- Timeframe for Displays
- Types of Decorations Allowed
- Placement of Decorations
- Guidelines for Lighting
- Noise Restrictions
Timeframe for Displays
Many HOAs have specific start and end dates for when you can display holiday decorations. That said, timeframes can vary from association to association, although it’s common to allow decorations to go up no earlier than a month before the holiday. Then, owners should take down the decorations no later than two weeks after the holiday.
Types of Decorations Allowed
The HOA may specify which types of holiday decorations are allowed or not allowed. For instance, they may ban large decorations, like massive inflatable characters or holiday signs, as they may appear tacky or outdated. Additionally, they may specify what decorations are allowed, like lights, wreaths, or other yard displays.
Placement of Decorations
Rules may dictate where decorations can be placed, whether in the home’s windows or throughout the yard. For instance, they may allow decorations on the front of the house, in windows, and in the yard.
On the other hand, HOAs may prohibit holiday decorations on roofs, balconies, or in common areas. Additionally, many HOAs require decorations to be securely anchored to the ground or to the home’s structure to keep homeowners and neighbors safe from harm.
Guidelines for Lighting
If your HOA allows holiday lights, they may have specific rules regarding the type of lights, colors, and how they can be displayed.
For instance, some HOAs don’t allow certain types of holiday lights, like bright flashes or flashing lights, as they can be distracting to neighbors. Additionally, homeowners should place holiday lights carefully, ensuring they don’t point at the road or anywhere that may hinder the view of drivers.
Noise Restrictions
Some HOAs may have rules about noise levels, which could impact holiday decorations that include music or sound effects. After all, most HOAs already have rules concerning noise levels, typically prohibiting loud noise from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. While not all holiday decorations make noise, those that do should be restricted from operating during odd hours.
5 Tips for Holiday Decorating in HOA Communities
Holiday decorating in HOA communities can be a festive and enjoyable way to celebrate the season. However, it’s crucial to respect and follow the rules and regulations of your neighborhood. As such, here are some tips to consider while decorating in an HOA community.
- Review HOA Guidelines
- Respect Your Neighbors
- Stick to the Approved Timeline
- Be Mindful of Placement
- Seek Approval if Necessary
Review HOA Guidelines
If you plan on decorating your home for the holidays, it’s crucial to first review your HOA’s guidelines for holiday decorations. For instance, pay attention to specific rules about the types of decorations allowed, like lights, wreaths, or yard displays. Note any color schemes or theme restrictions to ensure your decorations comply with your HOA rules and regulations.
Respect Your Neighbors
You’ll want to consider your neighbors when selecting which decorations to put up outside your home. For instance, consider any cultural or religious sensitivities your neighbors or guests may have when selecting decorations. Additionally, if you’re planning an elaborate display, you may want to communicate with your neighbors about your decorating plans.
Stick to the Approved Timeline
Some HOAs have a strict timeline for when decorations can be up. So, plan ahead to ensure you have enough time to set up your decorations within the specified timeframe. Additionally, avoid leaving decorations up past the approved removal date to avoid any violations.
Be Mindful of Placement
Many HOAs restrict where you can place your holiday decorations within your yard, front porch, or windows. For instance, you’ll want to avoid obstructing sidewalks, driveways, or roadways with your decorations to ensure safety for pedestrians and vehicles. Additionally, ensure that your decorations do not interfere with driver visibility or obstruct any street signs.
Seek Approval if Necessary
If you’re unsure if your decorations fall under your HOA rules and regulations, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Additionally, if your HOA requires approval for certain decorations, submit any requests well before putting them up for display. Additionally, if you’re unsure of anything, provide detailed information about the decorations you plan to use, including dimensions and placement, to streamline the approval process.
Ensure Compliance With Professional Management
Holiday decorating in HOA communities can be fun and festive. However, it’s crucial to follow your HOA’s rules and regulations regarding holiday displays, timelines, lighting guidelines, and more. That said, if you rent or own rental properties within an HOA community, you may want to check with your property manager to see what’s allowed and what’s not.
Need More Advice? contact us today!
Bay Property Management Group offers comprehensive HOA Management Services in Philadelphia. So, whether you self-manage your properties or you have an association manager, BMG’s team can assist with your community needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can ensure compliance throughout all of your properties.
