Light Trespass: Albuquerque vs Tijeras
How do light trespass rules compare between Albuquerque, NM and Tijeras, NM?
Albuquerque and Tijeras have similar restriction levels.
Albuquerque, NM
Bernalillo County
Albuquerque addresses light trespass through the IDO outdoor lighting standards and the state Night Sky Protection Act. Outdoor lighting must be designed and aimed to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties. Full-cutoff fixtures are required to minimize both upward light waste and horizontal light trespass.
View full Albuquerque rules →Tijeras, NM
Bernalillo County
Bernalillo County prohibits light trespass under IDO §5-11(D). Maximum 0.1 foot-candle at a residential property line from any off-site light source. Enforcement is complaint-based via County Code Enforcement.
View full Tijeras rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Albuquerque | Tijeras |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Maximum foot-candles at property boundary | - |
| Fixture Requirement | Full-cutoff to eliminate horizontal spill | - |
| Security Lighting | Must be aimed and shielded | - |
| Complaint Process | Through Code Enforcement | - |
| Redevelopment | May trigger fixture retrofit requirement | - |
| Residential Limit | - | 0.1 fc at property line |
| Commercial Limit | - | 1.0 fc at property line |
| Code | - | IDO §5-11(D) |
| Enforcement | - | Complaint + light meter |
| Max Fine | - | $1,000/day commercial |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Albuquerque FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights shining into my property?
You can file a complaint through the city's 311 system. Code Enforcement will investigate whether the lighting violates the IDO's light trespass standards and may require the neighbor to shield or redirect their fixtures.
What are the lighting standards at property boundaries?
The IDO sets maximum illumination levels (measured in foot-candles) at property lines. Lighting must use full-cutoff fixtures and be aimed to illuminate only the intended area, not neighboring properties.
Tijeras FAQ
My neighbor's floodlight shines in my bedroom — what can I do?
File a complaint with Bernalillo County Code Enforcement (311). Inspector will measure foot-candles at your property line; above 0.1 fc triggers a correction notice.
Does this apply to my front porch security light?
Yes if it spills past your property line above 0.1 fc. Motion-activated shielded fixtures comply; bare dusk-to-dawn bulbs often don't.
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