'Fun Police' calls to shut down neighbourhood Christmas lights

Victoria Police failed to shut down a festive Christmas light display put on by families in Melbourne's southeast due to "safety concerns".

Every Christmas for more than a decade, the 10 residents of Hugo Court, Narre Warren have transformed their court into a very merry display.

“We do it for a very good reason - it's for the kids and the smile on the parents face,” resident Tim Winter told 7 News.

But it seems they've become a victim of their own popularity.

Residents told 7 News a police officer approached each householder and asked that the lights go off because they were causing traffic issues.

“I approached her and asked why are the lights going off and she said because it was causing a major traffic issue,” Mr Winter said.

Neighbour Melissa Ulrich said: “Mum got a knock on the door, a really loud knock, it frightened her and… the police were there shutting down the lights.”

Accused of being the Christmas Grinch, Victoria Police said in a statement: "Residents were asked to turn off the Christmas light displays to assist in clearing the gridlock… due to safety concerns."

With the street getting so busy at night, the residents have tried to help with traffic issues, promoting online the best place to park is at a nearby primary school, 200 metres away.

“I think it's ridiculous and that they can't be responsible for other people’s actions,” Ms Ulrich said.

“[The officer] mentioned to a neighbour that it probably needs a permit and we said we weren't aware of that, we were just proving community spirit.”

City of Casey Council confirmed the neighbours do not need a permit, so on Thursday night the residents vow to shine bright and continue to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.