Family’s Christmas Lights Deemed a “Nuisance” by HOA — Now They’re Facing Daily Fines

A family in Germantown, Maryland, is speaking out after their festive Christmas display was labeled a “nuisance” by their homeowners association (HOA). The Salgado family, known in the neighborhood for their joyful and elaborate holiday decorations, now faces hundreds of dollars in fines and growing frustration.

A Christmas Tradition Rooted in Faith and Family

Every year, the Salgados transform their front yard into a vibrant holiday scene. The display includes hundreds of lights, wreaths, large nutcrackers, a nativity scene and sentimental touches that honor their late loved ones. Two glowing angels, placed in memory of their grandmother, have become a meaningful part of the tradition.

“It’s just a wonderful time of year for everyone,” says homeowner Pahan Salgado. “It reflects our faith and our Christian values. That’s why we decorate our house and put up the lights.”

For the family, the display is not just decoration — it’s a symbol of joy, remembrance, and community spirit.

Neighbors Say the Decorations Bring Joy

Many residents say the lights brighten the neighborhood and lift spirits during the holiday season. Neighbor Hinda Al-Awar, who lives directly across the street, says her children look forward to seeing the festive display every year.

“The decorations are beautiful,” she says. “It brings us joy. My kids love it.”

She and others say they see no disruption, no crowds and no noise — just holiday cheer.

But the HOA Disagrees — and the Fines Are Adding Up

Despite the positive feedback from neighbors, the Middlebrook Manor South HOA claims the display violates community rules. On December 8, the family received a letter stating they owed $650 in fines due to the “annoyance and nuisance” caused by their decorations.

According to the notice, the family is being charged $25 per day per violation for the 13-day period between November 26 and December 8. The HOA says the Salgados were previously warned that their lights and lawn ornaments were not in compliance with the association’s guidelines.

Family Says They’re Being Targeted Unfairly

The Salgados strongly disagree with the violations. They insist their decorations stay within their property lines and do not disturb anyone.

“We’re not attracting anybody. We’re not waking anyone up. We’re not disturbing the neighborhood,” Salgado explains. “Our lights are on our property. They’re not touching anyone else’s yard.”

They also say other homes in the neighborhood have Christmas displays as well — yet no one else appears to be receiving fines.

“Our neighbors have lights, a manger scene, decorations. But it’s just us getting harassed,” Salgado says.

Community Members Question HOA’s Motives

Neighbor Al-Awar agrees the enforcement feels selective.

“I don’t understand why the HOA keeps bothering them,” she says. “They’re wonderful people, and the decorations bring joy. Why target them?”

When local reporters attempted to contact HOA board members for comment, they received a message from the association’s attorney stating that the board does not comment on individual violations.

A Family Standing Firm in Their Beliefs

Despite the fines, the criticism, and the uncertainty of what comes next, the Salgado family says they will not take their decorations down.

“This is our core values and our religion,” Salgado says. “We won’t step back from what we believe in. The joy it brings to so many people is beyond what words can describe.”