Light Trespass: Bellevue vs Kent
How do light trespass rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Kent, WA?
Bellevue and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue prohibits lighting that shines onto neighbors or causes glare. Limit is 0.1 foot-candles at residential property lines under LUC 20.20.522.
View full Bellevue rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent treats neighbor light complaints as code nuisances. Lighting that directly shines onto another residential property, especially into windows, can be ordered corrected.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Trigger | - | Light onto neighbor lot |
| Commercial limit | - | ~0.5 fc at residential line |
| First step | - | Shield or re-aim fixture |
| Enforcement | - | Kent Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Kent FAQ
Can I complain about a neighbor's 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.
Compare other topics
See how Bellevue and Kent compare on other ordinance categories.
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