Check with board before stringing yule lights

Q Is there a standard rule for all condominiums in Ontario regarding Christmas decorations on our front door or stringing lights around our balconies? We can’t find anything in our condo documents about Christmas decorating. Please advise.

A Most of us take great joy in displaying Christmas decor, and some condominiums do allow Christmas lights or wreaths, but some don’t.

Each condominium will have specific policies. For example, townhouse condominium owners who pay their own hydro may be allowed to string lights. Corporations who are responsible to pay the hydro that powers the lights may prohibit exterior Christmas lights altogether to conserve energy. Before you string lights or display Santa on your balcony it is best you contact your board of directors, or management company if your documents are silent regarding this issue.

Any alterations to the common elements, even minor ones, are governed by Section 98 of the Ontario Condominium Act. Restrictions are in place to ensure that the common areas are not altered in anyway and that certain changes will not occur that could damage the appearance of the property or pose an insurance risk for the corporation.

Decorating restrictions should be reasonable. Directors have the option of forming committees or holding an owners meeting to discuss and agree what type of decorations will be permitted. If owners are provided with proper guidelines, there should be no problem regarding the appearance of the property during holiday times.

Decorating can be a great source of fun and does promote good community spirit. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!