Halloween decorating contest opens

Halloween is creeping closer. Registration for this year’s Mysterious Mansion Mayhem contest is underway and will run through Oct. 4.

The City of Maricopa is looking for local residents interested in participating in the annual Halloween decorating contest. Judging will take place the week before Halloween. There will be prizes for first, second and third place, with a Residents Choice award and an award for best haunted house.

Home decorating will be judged on originality and creativity. Residents will be provided a map of all entries.

Any outdoor structure built for a haunted house must be in the backyard and no larger than 200 square feet. Structures built for decorating the front yard require building permits.

Judging by the Parks, Recreation and Library Committee will be conducted Oct. 21-22. Residents can then vote online for their favorites Oct. 23-25. Residents Choice and the judges’ first place picks receive $250.

Second place is $100 and third place is $75. The best haunted house earns $150.

For information, email [email protected].