A homeowner in the Tampa area is facing the ultimate unwanted holiday gift: a possible fine from his homeowner’s association for putting Christmas lights on his home too soon.
Michael Moffa told NBC affiliate WFLA-TV the company he hired to put the lights up at his home in the Westchase community installed them on November 6th.
“That was their only availability, and I can’t climb up on the roof myself,” said Moffa.
Days later, Moffa said his family received a letter from their HOA saying decorations were not allowed to be put up until Thanksgiving Day.
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“The holidays and the pandemic, I think the kids are wanting something that’s more bright to look at,” said Moffa. “Right before Christmas, who could be a grinch to hand this out?”
Moffa faces a fine of $100 each day up to $1,000, according to the letter. An attorney for the HOA told the station a neighbor complained about the lights, which set off an investigation.
“If there’s enough the community that wants to change I believe generally the Community Association of Westchase will listen to the residents and will make changes,” attorney Jonathan Ellis said.
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Moffa said he has offered to keep the lights off until after Thanksgiving, but the HOA has not responded. He does not plan on taking them down.
