Light Trespass: Charlotte vs Matthews
How do light trespass rules compare between Charlotte, NC and Matthews, NC?
Charlotte and Matthews have similar restriction levels.
Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County
Charlotte's UDO establishes light trespass standards that limit the amount of light from one property that spills onto adjacent properties. New development must design lighting plans so that illumination at the property line does not exceed specified footcandle limits. Residents affected by excessive light from neighboring commercial or multifamily properties can file complaints with Code Enforcement.
View full Charlotte rules →Matthews, NC
Mecklenburg County
Matthews UDO prohibits light trespass exceeding 0.5 footcandles onto residential property lines. Complaints investigated by Matthews Code Enforcement; remedies include shielding, re-aiming, or timer controls.
View full Matthews rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Charlotte | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Maximum footcandles at property boundary | - |
| Code Reference | Charlotte UDO lighting standards | - |
| Complaints | File with Code Enforcement or CLT+ app | - |
| Applies To | New development and redevelopment | - |
| Residential Protection | Lower limits adjacent to residential zones | - |
| Limit | - | 0.5 fc at residential boundary |
| Common violators | - | Floodlights, wall-packs |
| Remedy | - | Shield, re-aim, or timer |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement complaint |
| Private action | - | Civil nuisance available |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Charlotte FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights in Charlotte?
If a neighboring commercial or multifamily property is causing light trespass, you can file a complaint with Charlotte Code Enforcement. The UDO sets maximum light levels at property boundaries.
Are there specific footcandle limits at property lines?
Yes, the UDO specifies maximum illumination levels at property boundaries, with lower limits where commercial or multifamily properties abut residential zones.
Matthews FAQ
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
Compare other topics
See how Charlotte and Matthews compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool