Christmas light mistake outside your home could cause you to be ‘investigated’

Festivities aren’t all fun and games as there are some seriously strange laws you need to abide by during the Xmas period – including being investigated if your neighbours disapprove of your lights and not being drunk in pubs

It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but that doesn’t mean the rulebook can be thrown completely out of the window. Did you know that there are plenty of rules and regulations surrounding the festive period, and making certain mistakes can cause you to be ‘investigated’, or even fined? That’s the last thing you want to happen when you’re trying to enjoy the festivities.

Experts at BPP University Law School shared some unusual laws that surround Yuletide, and some charges you could face if you get caught – including being careful about your Christmas lights and the rules around buying Christmas crackers.

The Christmas lights that are outside your home could be considered a ‘nuisance’ and could cause you to be investigated, the experts warn.

If you’re fond of putting twinkling Christmas lights up outside your house to get into the spirit of the season, you might want to rethink before going ‘all out’, as according to UK law, if Christmas lights are too bright or dazzling under the 1990 Statutory Nuisance Law, neighbours have the right to complain to the council about them.

After a complaint has been made, an investigation will be then opened to see whether the resident with the lights is at fault – it sounds like a lot of effort for a few flashing lights.

And if you’re looking to send your little one to the checkout with some Christmas crackers whilst you browse gifts for them, it might not be the best idea as Christmas crackers cannot be sold to people under 12.

According to the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015, Christmas Crackers actually count as category 1 fireworks, and if sold to those under the age of 12, can result in an unlimited fine or up to three months in prison, so it’s probably best that you go and purchase them.

It is well known that large UK shops and supermarkets are shut on Christmas Day, but did you know that it was a law?

Under the Christmas Day Trading Act 2004, shops that are larger than 280 square feet must close on Christmas Day after concern was raised about how many hours retail workers’ would be doing over the festive period.

Also, if you’re going to the pub over the festive period, you’ll need to be on your best behaviour as it is actually an offence to be drunk whilst at the pub.

The law is listed under section 12 of the 1872 Licensing Act, which says if any person is found to be drunk on a licensed property, they could be fined £200.

The law has also stated since 2003 that it is illegal for bar staff to serve drunk people – so it’s best to keep the merriness to a minimum.

Did you know these were laws? Let us know in the comments.