Maryland Family Risks $650 Fine for Christmas Decorations!

Maryland Family Risks $650 Fine for Christmas Decorations!

In an unusual case, a family in Germantown, Maryland, recently made headlines after their magnificent Christmas decorations led to serious conflict with the homeowners' association. The Salgado family, which also set up a large nativity scene, now faces a fine of $650 - the equivalent of about 550 euros - per day if they do not take down their lights and decorations. This information was provided by Marie France reported.

Pahan Salgado, the head of the family, emphasizes that the shimmering Christmas installation neither makes noise nor is disruptive. In the entangled dispute, the family is now fighting legal action to defend their decorations. Her lawyer, David Gardner, is convinced that the lawsuit against her is without merit and sees a good chance of winning in court.

Legal regulations regarding Christmas decorations

Although outdoor Christmas decorations are permitted, there are some legal requirements that must be observed. Article R1336-5 of the Health Code stipulates that noise must not disturb people during the night's rest. If there are complaints from neighbors about the Christmas decorations, this can quickly lead to financial consequences. Fines of 68 euros can be imposed, which increase to 180 euros if the payment deadline is not met. This explains Maison Travaux.

To avoid these penalties, it is advisable to take into account the following rules: decorations should be disabled between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and CE certified products are required when using outdoor lights. These regulations are intended to ensure that residents' sleep is maintained and that no conflicts arise.

Decoration rights and neighborhood problems

Especially during Advent, many people decorate their homes and balconies with lights and festive decorations. It should be noted that landlords have a say in certain cases. Attaching fairy lights to the balcony is generally permitted as long as the overall impression of the house is not negatively affected, as the Eschweiler district court determined (judgment of August 1, 2014). However, tenants who do not have their own garden need the landlord's permission for larger decorations such as Christmas trees or flashing reindeer Haufe explained.

Neighbors may also request that light installations be switched off by 10 p.m. at the latest if they are perceived as disturbing. It is important to pay attention to your surroundings and avoid possible conflicts so as not to spoil the festive mood.

However, with these regulations and a healthy neighborly attitude, most festive decorations should be able to be implemented without any problems - as long as the distance to neighbors and their needs is maintained.