Holiday Decoration Limits

Aurora Fights Untimely Holiday Lights

Decorations Still Up? You May Be Breaking The Law

POSTED: 7:54 am CST March 2, 2006
UPDATED: 8:25 am CST March 2, 2006
AURORA, Ill. -- It's something most of us see every year -- neighbors who refuse to take down their holiday lights. After receiving numerous complaints, a new city ordinance in Aurora now makes it illegal."Depending on the type, it trashes up the neighborhood," Aurora resident Laura Gartman said.The ordinance was approved Tuesday night and went into effect Wednesday. It applies to holiday lights and decorations outside Aurora homes.The new ordinance allows homeowners to display decorations 60 days prior to a holiday and requires them to be dismantled within 60 days after the holiday. Fines begin at $50 after a written warning. While two aldermen voted against the measure, nine agree it was necessary."The goal is really the upkeep of the neighborhood and the appearance of our neighbors' houses," Alderman Abby Schuler said. "We care about property values."The new ordinance applies to all holidays. So the homeowners that [EMAIL="[email protected]"]NBC5's Jennifer Mitchel[/EMAIL] found who still have their Halloween decorations up -- are breaking the law.But some argue that city officials should spend their time on more important causes."I think we've got a lot more serious problems in Aurora, with gangs and things like that, than you have to worry about somebody with lights on," resident Bob Jungels said.Residents bothered by the problem are encouraged to contact the city. Inspectors will be sent out to the home in question. Officials hope residents will hear about the new law and comply on their own.Aurora officials said the ordinance is modeled after similar laws in Northbrook, Mount Prospect, Elgin and LaGrange. Religious icons are not included in the Aurora ordinance. Copyright 2006 by [EMAIL="[email protected]"]NBC5.com[/EMAIL]. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.