Part of the job of a residential community board is to promote beauty and curb appeal in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, this can be a contentious issue regarding festive decor. Bright lights and noisy decorations lead to complaints from neighbors. Fortunately, HOA holiday decoration guidelines can limit nuisances. However, the board must be proactive and communicate policies before the holidays.

5 Best Practices for HOA Holiday Decoration Guidelines

1. Be Specific

Vague rules confuse people, so you need specific decor policies to prevent ambiguity. For starters, list the types of decorations that are allowed and not allowed. For example, some HOA boards prohibit inflatables, light shows, and loud music. Likewise, set specific size limits such as “no decorations taller than 6 feet.”

2. Give a Timeframe

Some people start putting up their Halloween decor immediately after Labor Day. Others leave their Christmas lights on into March. So, the board should establish strict put-up and take-down dates. For example, you could prohibit themed decor thirty days before and after the event. Likewise, set time limits for exterior illumination, such as turning off lighted decor between 10 PM and 6 AM. 

3. Consider All Holidays

When most people think of holiday decorations, they think of Halloween and Christmas. However, carefully crafted guidelines consider all special days, not just the big ones. For example, if blow-up snow globes aren’t allowed in the winter, neither are inflatable turkeys at Thanksgiving.

4. Communicate Clearly

Homeowners can’t follow the rules if they don’t know them. Boards should create clear guidelines, so there’s no confusion about what is and is not allowed. Communicate regulations to all residents and post reminders before the festivities. 

5. Stay Consistent

When it comes to enforcing decoration rules, consistency is key. If you let little things slide, soon, everyone will want exceptions all the time. Let homeowners know you’ll be conducting inspections, and then apply the rules fairly and honestly.

FAQ: How do HOAs enforce decoration policies?

When a homeowner violates the decoration policies, start by sending an email and letter reminding them of the rules and giving a set number of days to comply. Then, if the violations aren’t corrected, send a representative to provide a verbal warning. Finally, impose a daily fine if the offense isn’t removed after a reminder and warning.

Positive Community Culture

Decoration policies aren’t about putting a stop to festive good cheer. Instead, they’re about promoting beauty and positive community culture. The first step is creating clear policies that reflect the values of your residential community. Corner Property Management can help you develop and communicate HOA Holiday Decoration policies. Give us a call at 973-376-3925.