Outdoor Lighting in Keller, TX: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Keller or are thinking about moving there, outdoor lighting are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Keller has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of outdoor lighting, and some of them might surprise you.

Light Trespass

Keller prohibits exterior lighting that causes glare or excessive illumination crossing onto adjoining properties. Commercial property lines are typically capped at 0.5 foot-candles under the Lighting Standards.

Key details: Residential Edge: 0.1 to 0.5 foot-candles cap. Fixture Rule: Full-cutoff on commercial. Residential Rule: Nuisance prohibition applies. Report: Code Enforcement 817-743-4087. Private Remedy: Civil nuisance action.

Citations up to $500 per day for ongoing trespass after notice. Corrective action orders requiring shielding or relocation of fixtures. Civil nuisance claims available as a separate private remedy.

Dark Sky Rules

Keller Zoning Ordinance requires exterior lighting to be shielded and directed downward to prevent glare. Commercial lighting must limit illumination at residential property lines under the Lighting Standards.

Key details: Commercial Standard: Full-cutoff fixtures required. Property-Line Illuminance: Commonly 0.1 to 0.5 foot-candles. Canopy Lighting: Recessed or fully shielded. Residential Rule: No glare nuisance. Review: Site plan photometric plan.

Site plan enforcement through denial of certificate of occupancy for noncompliant lighting. Citations up to $500 per day for ongoing glare violations after notice.

The Bottom Line

Keller's outdoor lighting rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Keller is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Keller's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.