Light Trespass: Bellevue vs Kirkland
How do light trespass rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Kirkland, WA?
Bellevue and Kirkland 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 →Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland prohibits light trespass from one property onto another under KMC Title 115 lighting standards and nuisance provisions, with enforcement through Neighborhood Services when complaints are substantiated.
View full Kirkland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Kirkland |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Code | - | KMC Title 115 + Title 21 |
| Standard | - | Shielded downward lighting |
| Commercial | - | Property-line illumination cap |
| Holiday Lights | - | Seasonal leniency |
| Report | - | EyeOnKirkland |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Kirkland 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 through EyeOnKirkland; Neighborhood Services can order shielding or changes under the lighting standards.
Can I keep my Christmas lights up year-round in Kirkland?
Seasonal holiday lighting is allowed, but leaving lights illuminated long after the season and causing trespass onto neighbors may be treated as a nuisance.
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