PV Gap

Patsy Said:

Is there a law about outdoor residential lighting in PA? If so, how do I find it?

We Answered:

O.K...having dealt with multiple cities regarding exterior lighting, every city I have dealt with, with very few exceptions, has a "lighting trespass" ordinance. Essentially, there is a maximum level of light, measured in footcandles, that is allowed to spill over a property line. In every case I have dealt with, light trespass has pertained to commercial properties, but the ordinances do not distinguish between commercial and residential. If you live in a major area, there is a high likelihood that your city has a light trespass ordinance. If so, you can file a grievance with the city and they have to respond. You can use a light meter that measures footcandles, and most ordinances only allow 0.25fc at the property line. If you can't rent a meter, then you may have to find an electrician that has one. Considering that full moonlight is around 1fc, this gives you a good point of reference as to how much is being spilled over. You last recourse is a civil suit, where you best chance of winning is if you can prove that your neighbor's light is actually aimed at your property. Otherwise, it is overspill and you might still have a good case.

Get on your city's website, look up codes and ordinances, then find the lighting ordinances. You can also call city hall and ask for a code enforcement official. He or she will tell you what lighting ordinances the city has adopted. Ask him specifically about light trespass requirements, what the maximum trespass level is (in footcandles), and if they apply to residential.