Living in a rental doesn’t mean missing out on festive traditions. In Singapore, Deepavali, Hari Raya, and Chinese New Year are more than family holidays—they’re part of the nation’s cultural heartbeat. But tenants often face a tricky balance: how to celebrate joyfully while staying respectful of condo by-laws, rental agreements, and national regulations.
Here’s a practical guide—with official references, checklists, and even sample letters—to help you celebrate without risking your deposit or upsetting your neighbors.
Key Rules & Regulations Every Tenant Should Know
- Fireworks Are Prohibited
Under the Dangerous Fireworks Act, setting off fireworks or firecrackers in Singapore is illegal and carries heavy fines or jail time. Even during major festivals, there are no blanket exceptions. - Candles, Oil Lamps, and Fire Safety
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) allows candles and oil lamps (diyas) for religious or cultural use without special approval, but only if fire safety conditions are met: never leave them unattended, place them on fireproof trays, and keep them away from curtains or paper. And preferably it is not done inside the room or the unit. - Noise Levels
The National Environment Agency (NEA) regulates noise pollution. While occasional festive sounds are expected, sustained loud music late at night can trigger complaints and enforcement. - Condo By-Laws (MCST Rules)
Management Corporations (MCSTs) may impose strict rules on decorations (especially on balconies), use of common facilities, and visitor numbers. Always check your building’s by-laws. - HDB & Void Deck Usage
For tenants in HDB flats, using void decks or common spaces requires advance booking via the Town Council or OneService. Expect booking fees, deposits, and additional conditions if caterers or LPG tanks are involved.
How to Celebrate Responsibly
- Before the Festival: Permissions & Checks
- Read Your Tenancy Agreement: Look for clauses on alterations, decorations, and liability.
- Check By-Laws / House Rules: Condo MCSTs and HDB Town Councils may limit decorations, noise hours, or guest capacity.
- Book Shared Spaces Early: For HDB void decks, apply 3–6 months in advance, especially during peak festival seasons.
- Inform Your Landlord: Send a polite email (sample below) outlining what you plan to do.
- Decorations: Festive but Damage-Free
- Use removable hooks (e.g., Command hooks) and LED string lights instead of nails.
- Swap real candles with LED tealights for the same glow without risk.
- If using diyas or oil lamps, follow SCDF guidance: fireproof trays, no unattended flames, extinguish before leaving the room.
- Avoid hanging items from balconies unless explicitly permitted by by-laws.
- Food & Festive Treats
- Cook Small Batches: Keep it manageable for your rental kitchen.
- Ventilation Matters: Use extractor fans and open windows for dishes with strong aromas.
- Consider Caterers: For large gatherings, book licensed caterers and declare LPG or tentage use if hosting in void decks.
- Hosting Guests & Noise Etiquette
- Know Visitor Limits: Some condos cap guest numbers in units or shared facilities.
- Keep Volume Respectful: Avoid blasting music or karaoke late into the night. NEA guidelines serve as a benchmark for acceptable noise levels.
- Be Neighborly: Inform neighbors ahead of time (sample message below).
- Fire & Safety Precautions
- No Fireworks—Ever. It’s illegal, full stop.
- Supervise Open Flames: Diyas or candles must never be left unattended. Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby.
- Mind Shared Spaces: Avoid blocking corridors, stairwells, or emergency exits with decorations or tables.
- After the Festival: Clean-Up & Deposit Protection
- Restore the property to its original condition.
- Take “before and after” photos for proof if disputes arise.
- Ensure shared spaces (void decks, function rooms) are spotless to secure your refundable deposit.
Handy Checklist
1–2 Weeks Before
☐ Check tenancy agreement clauses
☐ Review condo by-laws / book void deck via OneService
☐ Notify landlord in writing
Festival Day
☐ Use removable hooks & LED lights
☐ Keep fire extinguishing tools nearby
☐ Respect noise curfews
☐ Greet neighbors / inform them about the gathering
After the Festival
☐ Clean and reset the unit
☐ Clear common areas and return rented equipment
☐ Document with photos
Sample Letters
(a) Email to Landlord
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I plan to celebrate [Deepavali/Hari Raya/Chinese New Year] at [unit address] on [date] with a small gathering of about [X] guests. Decorations will be non-invasive (LED lights, removable hooks, small diyas on fireproof trays), and I will ensure noise is kept reasonable. The apartment will be restored fully after. Please confirm your approval.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
(b) Message to Neighbors
Hi neighbors, just a quick heads-up: I’ll be hosting a small [festival] gathering on [date] from [time] to [time]. I’ll keep noise levels down and ensure things are cleaned up. Please let me know if you have any concerns—thanks for your understanding!
Final Thoughts
Festivals are about joy, community, and tradition. Even in a rental, you can embrace the season—as long as you stay mindful of safety, respect, and regulations. By planning ahead, using reversible décor, and keeping open communication with landlords and neighbors, your celebrations can be just as meaningful as in your own home.
