During the holiday season many homeowners association members plan festivities with friends and loved ones. With all of the merriment that’s sure to ensue, it’s important that the HOA board reminds residents who are hosting celebrations to not only be considerate of their neighbors, but also take note of the Association’s rules.

A complete listing of Association rules and regulations can be found in the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) of your HOA, but here are a few key items to look up that are particularly pertinent during the holiday season and other times of celebration.

1.  Check for Guidelines About Outdoor Decorations

Decking the halls with seasonal ornaments is a great way to bring the holiday spirit home. Many love to spread the joy by decorating the outside of their homes and front yards as well, but before you scurry up that ladder to hang the decorative lights along the side of your roof, take a quick peek at the CC&Rs to find out the guidelines for outdoor decorations, as well as the guidelines for flags and signs if you plan on decorating with those. This will help make sure your outdoor winter wonderland isn’t a violation that causes you to receive a letter from the HOA board.

2.  Pay Attention to the Noise Level at Parties

We hope you all have plenty of chances to eat, drink and be merry this holiday season. If you plan on hosting a large get-together or party keep the revelry and noise to a minimum, and wind the party down at a reasonable time—you don’t want your celebrating to interfere with your neighbors’ attempts to get visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads.

Check your CC&Rs to find out what the Association deems acceptable noise levels and what the quiet hours are, as well as guidelines for hosting parties.

3.  Know the Rules for Visitor Parking

The holidays bring many people together, and that means extra cars will need to be parked. To make sure your guests are covered, look at the CC&Rs to find out the rules on visitor parking in the homeowners association, including where they can park and what kind of parking passes they may need. If you're unsure at all, check with an HOA board member. 

4.  Don't Let Guests Wear Out Their Welcome

It wouldn’t be the holidays without Uncle Marv and Aunt Ethel bunking in little Jimmy’s room. Of course, depending on how long your overnight guests are staying, you may need to let the Association know. The CC&Rs will give you a breakdown on the rules for both short-term and long-term guests, so take a look at them before you break out the airbed.

An HOA board should remind and encourage residents to follow the rules and regulations. This helps ensure that everyone in the homeowners association can enjoy this special time of year, so please help by doing your part. Stay safe and have a wonderful holiday season.