A festive family tradition has descended into a bitter legal standoff in Maryland, USA, after a homeowners' association (HOA) threatened a household with escalating daily fines of $650 for their Christmas decorations.
Faith and Tradition at the Heart of the Row
The Salgado family from Germantown, just outside Washington D.C., say their HOA has ordered them to dismantle their outdoor display, which is anchored by a traditional nativity scene. The family insists the setup reflects their faith and a long-standing holiday custom.
"We have the manger scene out front, which is like the centrepiece for our display," Pahan Salgado told local media. "It shows us our faith and what we believe in and the reason we decorate for Christmas."
Despite the HOA labelling the decorations a nuisance, Mr Salgado argued the display is completely silent. "It's a very silent night out here," he remarked.
Selective Enforcement Alleged by Family's Lawyer
The Salgados say they deliberately scaled back their display this year to avoid issues, making the HOA's threat of fines baffling and unfair. The dispute has now pushed them to seek legal counsel.
Their attorney, David Gardner, contends the enforcement appears inconsistent. He points out that other homes in the neighbourhood have similar, albeit less extravagant, decorations yet have not been targeted.
"This is a very attractive, traditional Christmas display, and they're essentially being selectively singled out for enforcement," Gardner stated, confirming the family plans to challenge the fines in court.
Broader Crackdown on Festive Cheer
The Salgados are not alone. At least one other neighbour received a warning letter from the HOA over her illuminated reindeer decorations. That neighbour expressed disbelief at the crackdown, saying, "I'm amazed that in America today, 2025, almost 2026 - and people are complaining about beautiful decorations."
An HOA lawyer declined to comment on the specific case but defended the association's broader approach in a statement, saying its goal is to support a safe community while enforcing governing documents uniformly under Maryland law.
Undeterred, the Salgados vow to continue their tradition. "The grinches are gonna hate, but we're still going to do it," said Supuli Salgado.
