It is apparent the moment you drive though any DC Ranch neighborhood that DC Ranch is a special place to live because of the foresight of the developers and the guidelines set for the community. Here are community guidelines plus 3 safety tips for outdoor holiday decorating at DC Ranch.
From mid-January to October community guidelines for exterior decor is structured and limited to landscaping and exterior elements that mirror the desert and architectural style of each neighborhood. From October 1st to January 15, however, residents are encouraged to show their holiday creativity and spirit and put up “gifts to the streets” by decorating for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.
Holiday decorating guidelines and safety for DC Ranch residents
The guideline from the DC Ranch HOA for seasonal decorations is simple:
“Decorations..[sic]..are encouraged. Sensitivity to light levels should be applied when installing any decorative lighting. Exterior lighting as decoration is limited to the period between October 1 and January 15.”
So get out your lights, yard toys, candy canes and Santa and decorate to your heart’s delight. As you do, follow these 3 safety tips from The Matheson Team to ensure your display lights up the sky and doesn’t make sparks fly.
1. Follow basic ladder safety guidelines
- Chose a ladder that extends 3 feet above your working surface or roof line
- It’s a 2-person job, have someone hold the ladder while you are on it
- Check rungs to be sure they are in working condition
- Put your ladder on level ground (use levelers if need be)
- Be sure your ladder can handle the load you are putting on it
- Set up single and extension ladders at a 75 degree angle
- Don’t use a metal ladder near power lines
- Center your body between rails and don’t lean or reach too far to one side
- Don’t stand on the top 3 rungs of the ladder and stay off the bucket shelf
2. Holiday lights
- Be sure they are (United Laboratories) UL tested. Lights for external use have a red UL label. A green UL label indicates lights for indoor use.
- Follow wattage recommendations for sockets, extension cords and power strips. Too many strings, extension cords and power strips may lead to circuit overload.
- Outlets – your light extension cord should be plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These outlets automatically shut-down if there is a current overload. If you don’t have one outdoors, you can purchase a portable GFCI for about $20 at Home Depot or Lowe’s.
- Check sockets and wires to be sure they are not cracked, frayed, worn or have loose connections to prevent fire risk
3. Follow directions for Blow-ups
- Follow manufacturer anchoring instructions to keep your blow-up from blowing away
- Shut off the blowers when it is windy, when you are away and when you go to bed
DC Ranch gives residents latitude to be creative and show their holiday spirit in giving ‘gifts to the streets’ of the community. Get out, enjoy the warm air, decorate, and enjoy your holidays with family and friends.
Looking to buy a home in DC Ranch? Reach out to us at 480-360-0281 or complete the contact form below and we’ll schedule a time to show you properties here.
We are your go-to resource for DC Ranch homes, community information and events.
Don Matheson
Realtor | Founder
The Matheson Team – RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-360-0281
don@scottsdalerealestate.com
