Clearwater vs Dunedin
How do light trespass rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Dunedin, FL?
Clearwater and Dunedin have similar restriction levels.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater Community Development Code limits exterior lighting that spills onto neighboring property or rights-of-way, requiring shielded fixtures and capped illuminance levels at property lines.
View full Clearwater rules →Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin's Land Development Code prohibits outdoor lighting that spills excessive illumination onto adjacent properties or public rights-of-way. Fixtures must be shielded and aimed so that direct light does not trespass onto neighboring residential parcels.
View full Dunedin rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Dunedin |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Community Development Code | - |
| Residential limit | 0.5 footcandles at line | Strictest at property line |
| Nonresidential | 1.0 footcandle at line | - |
| Fixture | Full cutoff required | - |
| Light trespass prohibited | - | Onto neighboring property |
| Shielding required | - | Yes, for spillover fixtures |
| Recommended controls | - | Cutoff, timers, sensors |
| Enforcement | - | Code special magistrate |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright outdoor light in Clearwater?
File a complaint with Clearwater Code Compliance. If the light spills onto your property above the allowed footcandle limits or creates a nuisance, the city can require shielding or fixture replacement.
Are floodlights legal on Clearwater homes?
Floodlights are allowed if they are aimed downward, shielded, and do not project light beyond the property line. Motion-activated security lights should also avoid continuous spill onto neighbors.
Dunedin FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright security light?
Document the trespass with photos and times and file a complaint with Dunedin Code Enforcement. Officers can require the neighbor to shield, redirect, or replace the fixture.
Are residential floodlights regulated?
Yes. Even single-family floodlights and decorative spotlights must not direct light onto neighboring properties; chronic complaints can become a code violation requiring shielding.
What fixtures comply with the rules?
Full cutoff or fully shielded fixtures, properly aimed, with motion sensors and timers, generally satisfy the city's glare and light-trespass requirements at the property line.
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