Light Trespass: Bergenfield vs Mahwah

How tall can a parking lot light pole be in Bergenfield?

On commercial, industrial, or public facilities, the height of any light source may not exceed 18 feet under the borough's site plan design standards. Taller poles require a variance.

Does Bergenfield protect neighbors from light spilling across property lines?

Yes. The site plan code requires that lighting of buildings, property, and signs not produce glare at the exterior lot lines, and parking layouts must be arranged to minimize headlight glare on adjacent properties.

How do I report a neighbor's bright light?

Contact your municipality's zoning officer or building inspector. They can measure foot-candles at the property line and issue a violation notice if local light trespass limits are exceeded.

What is a typical residential foot-candle limit?

Most Bergen County towns limit illumination to 0.1 foot-candles at residential property lines. Commercial-to-residential boundaries are often slightly higher, around 0.2 foot-candles.

Can I sue a neighbor over bright lights?

Yes, under New Jersey nuisance law. If lighting unreasonably interferes with use of your property, courts may grant injunctions and damages independent of municipal enforcement.