Dallas vs Mesquite
How do light trespass rules compare between Dallas, TX and Mesquite, TX?
Dallas and Mesquite have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas Development Code Sec. 51A-13.601 prohibits lighting that substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of any other property. All fixtures must be full cutoff and mounted so the cone of light is contained on-site and does not cross any property line. Fixture height is limited to 30 feet above parking areas. Light luminance in non-business districts cannot exceed 200 foot-lamberts. Violations can be reported to Code Compliance.
View full Dallas rules →Mesquite, TX
Dallas County
Mesquite limits outdoor lighting spill onto adjacent property through zoning foot-candle limits and treats egregious glare as a nuisance subject to abatement.
View full Mesquite rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Mesquite |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Sec. 51A-13.601 | - |
| Standard | Light must not cross property lines | - |
| Fixture Height | 30 ft max above parking | - |
| Non-Business Luminance | 200 foot-lamberts maximum | - |
| Full Cutoff | Required for all fixtures | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights in Dallas?
File a complaint with Code Compliance. Sec. 51A-13.601 prohibits lighting that substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of any other property and requires light to be contained on-site.
Are there specific brightness limits?
In non-business zoning districts, no illuminated sign or light shall have a luminance greater than 200 foot-lamberts. All fixtures must be full cutoff type with light contained on-site.
Mesquite FAQ
What can I do about my neighbor's floodlight shining in my window?
File a complaint with Mesquite Code Compliance. They can require the neighbor to shield or re-aim the fixture as a nuisance abatement.
Is there a specific brightness limit for residential lights?
There is no lumen or wattage cap for home lights, but lighting cannot create a nuisance or cross into neighboring property at harmful levels.
Does the 0.5 foot-candle rule apply to homeowner lights?
It applies to non-residential-to-residential boundaries. Residential-to-residential disputes use the nuisance standard rather than a numeric limit.
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