A US family from Florida may receive a $1,000 (£750) fine this year for putting the Christmas decorations for their house out too early.
On November 8 the Moffa family received a letter from their local community association threatening the fine.
Father Michael Moffa told Fox 13 he had to book the professional decorator early this year because it was the only available time slot.
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He said: "We couldn't get in on last year's. We actually booked this year from last year.
"November 6 was the date that he had early so we did it."
The letter from Westchase Community Association stated the family would be fined $100 (£75) for every day the decorations remained up.
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Aiming for a sleeker festive look this year, the Moffa's have only bagged themselves a maximum $1,000 (£750).
Christmas came early, far too early, according to the community association.
Only after US festival Thanksgiving on 25 November could Christmas lights go out on buildings.
Their Christmas polar bear and Christmas trees out back may have escaped the Grinch's eyes, but the house's front was too much for some.
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Michael said: "If you take a look at the lights, it's not egregious, right?
"And when they are on they actually look pretty cool and the kids enjoy it and it puts a smile on their face."
The community associations letter with the fine notice arrived only 48 hours after the lights had been put out.
House owner Chelsea Moffa posted about the incident on Facebook to much local anger.
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She wrote: "We honestly never thought it would turn into what it has, but I'm grateful that it has because I feel like it has just brought everyone all over the country together."
She even received support from the one and only Mariah Carey, who retweeted an article about the Moffa's story.
Mariah said: "There's no regulating festiveness."
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And who can argue with that?
The community association's lawyer revealed it was a neighbour who complained about the Moffa's early start.
A vote must first be held by the association before the potential fine is imposed.
Michael said: "I get that there are guidelines, but this is a little too extreme."
Featured Image Credit: FOX 13Topics: US News
