A heavy price to pay for Christmas lights fantastic
DECKING your house with Christmas lights may seem like a bright idea but if you overdo it and the neighbours complain, you could incur a fine of up to £ 20,000. This sum is the maximum punishment if your festive display is deemed a “statutory nuisance”.
Local authorities have a duty to investigate complaints from your neighbour about disturbed sleep or dangerous displays, and offenders have faced fines of up to £ 20,000 for refusing to take down their display.
Naveen Jaspal, chief operating officer at online estate agency Emoov, has revealed that local authorities must determine whether a Christmas display impacts the health or enjoyment of neighbouring properties.
Jaspal said: “They will also consider how long the lights are on during the day and when you turn them off.” She added that Christmas light spotting has become increasingly popular, but many people now take to social media and forums to voice their annoyance.
This can be prevented by putting measures in place.
Always ensure your lights are intended for outdoor use and beware of trapping cables between windows and doors. “Use a timer that switches your lights off at a reasonable hour, especially if your neighbours have young children,” Jaspal added.
Timers can also cut your energy consumption. Seven million people will have outdoor light displays this year and research from Uswitch. com shows that putting up 200 fairy lights and a light- up reindeer could add £ 11 to your energy bill if they’re left on for six hours a night from November 26 to January 7.