It won't be long before Halloween decorations will be everywhere. It's a lot of fun to decorate for Halloween, but when you're a part of a community association or HOA, it can make it tricky. You certainly don't want to break any rules, but you should be able to celebrate the holiday as well. The good news is that there are ways for you and your family to enjoy Halloween without going against the rules at all.
Halloween is supposed to be fun, and we have some tips that can help you keep it that way.
Tip #1: Get Some Clarification on Noise Restrictions
A spooky soundtrack is a great addition to any Halloween display. But what happens when your HOA has noise restrictions? Those restrictions may not mean that you're not allowed to play any music at all. Make sure you know what your community association says about sounds. You may be able to have your soundtrack playing softly, or, you may find that you can only play it on the actual holiday. Either way, it's good to know what's expected so you can comply.
Tip #2: Consider Your Lighting Options
It makes sense that many HOAs wouldn't want their members having big light displays. They can be a distraction, and your neighbors may see them as an inconvenience. Instead, opt for a smaller light display, or find out if you can put a timer on your lights. That way, they'll turn off at a specific time at night so your neighbors can sleep soundly.
Tip #3: Decorate with Smaller Pieces of Yard Art
Everyone is drawn to the large, inflatable ghosts, goblins and vampires. They certainly bring attention to your property, but your community association may frown on them because they can be an eyesore. Instead, why not go minimal with your yard art this year? There are so many tasteful options that might make everyone envious of your decorating skills. A few fake headstones and some jack-o-lanterns that you and your family carved might be just right.
Tip #4: Check the Guidelines on Religious Decorations
Your HOA may have rules in place about using religious decorations, and this applies, even at Halloween. For example, witches are frequently equated with the Wiccan religion, so they should be avoided. Fortunately, witches aren't the only characters that are acceptable Halloween decorations. You might be able to opt for something that's more harvest-themed, which would be more likely to be considered appropriate.
Bonus Tip: Consider Filing a Complaint to Change the Rules
If you really feel that the rules governing Halloween decorations are too strict, you may be able to do something about it. There's nothing wrong with filing a complaint; particularly if your neighbors feel the same way you do. If you decide to do that, make sure you know exactly what you would be willing to agree to.
For instance, you may say that you'll agree to only decorating for a two-week period around Halloween instead for the entire month of October, and into November. If you offer a concession like that, the HOA may be more willing to consider changing the rules to accommodate your desires.
There are so many benefits to living in a community association or HOA. But managing it and keeping everyone happy can be difficult. That's why it makes sense to choose to work with a company like RealManage.
We have a host of services to fit your HOA's unique needs. Let us take on the responsibility of managing your community association so you can focus on making your HOA the best it can be.
Would you like to learn more? Please contact us!
Camille Moore
