As the holiday season kicks into full effect – let the decorating begin! But does your homeowners association have a say when it comes to expressing your holiday spirit? HOA’s often have some control when it comes to regulating the decorations adorning a home, but can the HOA decide if the 20-foot inflatable Santa and Las Vegas light show can stay on the roof? Yes, it probably can. And no, Clark Griswold clearly did not live in an HOA.
It is no secret that HOA Boards often struggle when considering whether holiday decorations are acceptable. Aesthetic considerations, as well as the impact on neighboring properties and the community at large, are just a few examples of things the Board must take into account when determining whether holiday decorations are acceptable. It is therefore important to have clearly defined rules governing the installation and maintenance of such items.
Under California Civil Code section 4350, HOA operating rules—including those governing holiday decorations—are valid and enforceable only if, among other things, they are reasonable. The following are common rule types that are considered reasonable without appearing to be from a page in Mr. Grinch’s “How to Ruin Christmas” playbook:
- Noise limits and quiet hours. Restrictions on amplified music or motion‑activated sound effects (and “off” times at night) protect neighbors’ quiet use and enjoyment, and reduce nuisance complaints.
- Lighting limits. Restrictions on flashing or strobe effects, lumen/brightness limitations, or “lights off by 10 p.m.” reduce light pollution and driver distraction while still allowing tasteful displays.
- Height/size restrictions. Limits on rooftop pieces or very tall inflatables reasonably protect sightlines, prevent wind hazards, and reduce roof loading risks.
- Placement and safety rules. Prohibiting decorations that block sidewalks, exits, fire equipment, or utility access—and requiring secure anchoring—addresses legitimate safety concerns.
- Timing windows. Clear dates for when decorations may be installed and must be removed curb lingering displays and keep the community looking maintained between seasons.
- Uniformity in common areas. Standards for what may be placed on building exteriors or shared spaces (versus within an owner’s exclusive‑use area) preserve a consistent look and property values.
| Community newsletters or email blasts to the HOA’s members are easy ways to remind them of the HOA’s rules and expectations. Setting appropriate boundaries coupled with clear communication may resolve many disputes before an HOA is seen as the Scrooge. |