Christmas decorating rules in Germany. Holidays in Germany. With the festive season approaching, many people are excited to decorate their apartments, balconies, and gardens with colourful lights and glowing decorations. While holiday displays add a joyful touch, tenants in Germany should be aware of potential legal issues and restrictions around certain decorations. In some cases, improper use of lights or decor on building exteriors can even lead to fines. To avoid problems, here are key points to keep in mind when decorating for the holidays in Germany.
Holiday Decorating Rules for Apartments in Germany
Decorating the inside of an apartment for the holidays in Germany is typically fine, but when it comes to facades, balconies, or gardens, tenants need to follow specific guidelines. For example, sound and lighting displays should respect “night quiet hours,” which usually run from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Violating these noise restrictions can annoy neighbours and may result in fines of up to €5,000.
In common areas, like stairwells and basements, decorations must not block evacuation routes or restrict movement. Additionally, if decorations, like flashing lights or loud music, cause significant disturbance, neighbours may even request a rent reduction due to the peace disruption.
Read also: Understanding Weihnachtsgeld: Who Qualifies for Germany’s Christmas Bonuses?
Decorating facades and outdoor areas in Germany requires special precautions to ensure safety. According to Angela Lutz-Plank from the Mieterverein München, outdoor decorations like Santa figures, angels, and stars must be securely fastened. This is essential so that they remain stable and do not pose a risk to passers-by, even in strong winds or snowstorms. The primary concern is to prevent decorations from falling and causing potential injuries.
Additionally, if tenants wish to drill into the building’s facade to secure decorations, they must first get permission from the property owner. Drilling affects the structure of the building, and owners have the right to deny such alterations to maintain the integrity of the property.
Thinking About Open Flames in Holiday Decor? A Risky Choice for Renters
While tenants have plenty of flexibility in decorating their apartment interiors, using open flames, like candles or sparklers, demands extra caution and adherence to fire safety guidelines. If fire damage occurs, the building’s insurance typically covers repair costs. However, authorities may hold tenants financially responsible if they act carelessly or with gross negligence.
Christmas decorations can beautifully enhance the festive season, adding warmth and cheer to living spaces. But tenants should keep in mind certain rules and safety guidelines to prevent issues. Key areas of focus include respecting shared spaces, observing quiet hours, and ensuring all decorations are securely fastened to avoid potential fines or disputes.