Light Trespass: Auburn vs Federal Way
How do light trespass rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn prohibits light trespass from one property onto another under ACC Title 18 lighting standards and nuisance provisions, with enforcement through Code Enforcement when complaints are substantiated.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way treats neighbor light complaints as code nuisances. Lighting that directly shines onto another residential property, especially into windows, can be ordered corrected.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Code | ACC Title 18 + Title 8 | - |
| Standard | Shielded downward lighting | - |
| Commercial | Property-line illumination cap | - |
| Holiday Lights | Seasonal leniency | - |
| Report | (253) 931-3000 | - |
| Trigger | - | Light onto neighbor lot |
| Commercial limit | - | ~0.5 fc at residential line |
| First step | - | Shield or re-aim fixture |
| Enforcement | - | Federal Way Code Compliance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
My neighbor's security light shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
First ask the neighbor to reaim or shield the fixture. If that fails, file a complaint with Auburn Code Enforcement; officers can order shielding or changes under the lighting standards.
Can I keep my Christmas lights up year-round in Auburn?
Seasonal holiday lighting is allowed, but leaving lights illuminated long after the season and causing trespass onto neighbors may be treated as a nuisance.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I complain about a neighbor floodlight?
Yes, file a code complaint describing the fixture and its impact on your windows or yard.
Is there a wattage limit?
No fixed watt cap for residential, but the light must be shielded so it does not trespass onto adjacent property.
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