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I'm dreaming of a highly regulated, HOA-approved ChristmasI'm dreaming of a highly regulated, HOA-approved ChristmasBryan PopePope
2016-12-01T06:00:00ZHousing
​Driving through my neighborhood the other evening, ​​​​I noticed a seven-foot inflatable Will Ferrell "Elf" ornament swaying gently in someone's front yard. A house farther up the street was illuminated by enough Christmas lights to make Clark Griswold jealous.

Ordinarily, our neighborhood, like many these days, is tightly restricted by homeowner association (HOA) rules, so I was pleasantly surprised to see some leeway where holiday decorations are concerned. Perhaps our HOA's heart isn't two sizes too small after all.

If you live in a neighborhood with strict HOA rules, here are a few tips to help you avoid receiving a curtly worded reprimand—or, worse, a fine—because of well-meaning but overly enthusiastic holiday decor.

Obviously, start by reading your neighborhood's governing documents or checking with the HOA or its management company to find out how early decorations can go up and when they must come down.

Be respectful of your neighbors by avoiding displays with loud music, sound effects, or flashing lights.

Speaking of neighbors, you might check with yours before you deck the halls to make sure your plans won't cause any problems.

Use common sense. For example, consider not arranging exterior lights in the shape of an extended middle finger, regardless of how you feel about your HOA's rules.
2016-12-01T06:00:00Zhttps://www.recenter.tamu.edu/info/blog/?Item=61

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