How Somerville Handles Outdoor Lighting: A Practical Guide

Somerville maintains 115 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with outdoor lighting. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Somerville falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Light Trespass

Somerville zoning limits light trespass at residential property lines to 0.1 foot-candles. Complaints are handled by ISD zoning enforcement.

Key details: Residential limit: 0.1 fc at property line. Commercial limit: 0.5 fc at property line. Shielding: Lamp not visible from neighbor. Aim: 30 degrees below horizontal. Fine: Up to $300 per day.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Dark Sky Rules

Somerville zoning requires full cutoff fixtures and limits outdoor lighting to 3000K color temperature in most districts. Uplighting is generally prohibited.

Key details: Fixture standard: Full cutoff required. Color temperature: 3000K maximum typical. Uplighting: Generally prohibited. Property line: 0.5 fc maximum. Streetlights: 3000K LED citywide.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

The Bottom Line

Somerville'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 Somerville is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Somerville can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.