12,000-Light Halloween Home Back In Business [Video]

A 12,000-light Halloween home was recently shut down by authorities in Riverside, California. Although the display will be moved to another location, a block party permit will allow the show to go on.

The synchronized lights and music delighted the Riverside, California, community. However, authorities said the homeowner went to far. Kevin Judd was cited for violating a noise ordinance and rules set forth by the local homeowners association.

According to the homeowners association, Judd violated rules prohibiting excessive holiday scenes or displays. Riverside authorities said the 12,000 lights were incredibly bright and the music was simply too loud. As reported by Examiner, several neighbors filed complaints as the display attracted large crowds and caused traffic jams.

A neighbor, who wishes to remain anonymous, said the display is “awesome.” Unfortunately, it drew hundreds of viewers each night. The neighbor was specifically concerned, as some of the viewers were unruly.

“There were so many people, cars. The disrespect of the people that were coming here. Parking in no-parking zones and just kinda overtook the neighborhood.”

Judd admits the viewers were often inspired to dance along with the music. However, he denies accusations that his guests were unruly. According to Judd, “the crowd was sitting in the grass… [they] weren’t blocking traffic or leaving trash or anything.”

Kevin Judd said he spent months planning the elaborate display. In addition to thousands of lights, spectators were treated to music from Nightmare Before Christmas and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” In Judd’s opinion, the display was neither too bright nor excessively loud.

The disgruntled homeowner said “screaming moms and dads” at the ballpark are far louder than the music in his exhibit. As Sunday’s citation is his second in three years, Judd is unsure if he will build a similar display next year. Instead, he may rent a venue away from the neighborhood.

Judd’s neighbor, Raul De La Torre, said the exhibit is “great for the kids.” Unfortunately, he said “it wears on people” as the music and lights were activated every night.

As reported by the Press Enterprise, Judd’s neighbors have found a solution to his dilemma. Mark and Melanie Betty have agreed to host the display at their Deercreek Drive home. To deter future complaints and citations, the Bettys have obtained a block party permit. The special permit will allow the Bettys to close the block while the exhibit is turned on.

Outrageous Christmas displays are often quite popular during the winter holiday season. However, excessive Halloween displays are quite rare. In most cases, homeowners are criticized for gory content rather than excessive music and lights. In the case of Kevin Judd, authorities determined the 12,000-light Halloween house was a bit much. Thankfully, the block party permit will allow the show to go on.

[Image via Shutterstock]