Kennewick's Outdoor Lighting: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles outdoor lighting a little differently. In Kennewick, Washington, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Light Trespass & Shielding

Kennewick requires every outdoor light fixture installed since 2007 to be fully shielded so light does not spill above the horizontal and does not shine past the fixture's own property line, the City's core defense against light trespass onto a neighbor's land under KMC 18.39.030.

Key details: Light trespass defined: Light beyond the fixture's own property line. Uplight shielding rule: Direct light above horizontal minimized. Good Neighbor rule: Fixtures directed downward, off neighbor's lot. Residential exclusion: Under 1,800 lumens exempt. Statute of limitations: 1 year to bring an action.

A light trespass or shielding violation is enforced as a Title 18 zoning code violation under KMC 9.48.020: the Director can enter a voluntary compliance agreement, issue a notice and order with civil penalties, and require abatement, and willful or repeat violations can be referred to the City Attorney for prosecution. Any legal action must be filed within one year of the violation under KMC 18.39.070.

Dark Sky Rules

Kennewick requires all outdoor light fixtures installed since Chapter 18.39 took effect to be fully shielded so no direct light shines above the horizontal, and directed downward to stay off neighboring property.

Key details: Shielding required: Fully shielded, light-level fixture. Direction rule: Light directed downward, on-site only. Pole height cap: Not taller than nearest streetlight. Claim deadline: 1 year to sue (18.39.070).

Installing or operating an unshielded fixture that casts glare or light trespass onto neighboring property violates KMC 18.39.030 and 18.39.040; legal action under this Chapter must be filed within one year under KMC 18.39.070.

The Bottom Line

Kennewick'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 Kennewick is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Kennewick's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.