Light Trespass: Dunedin vs St. Petersburg
How do light trespass rules compare between Dunedin, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Dunedin and St. Petersburg have similar restriction levels.
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 →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg Section 16.40.070 prohibits glare and light trespass onto abutting properties, requiring shielded fixtures and limiting illumination at the property line.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dunedin | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| Light trespass prohibited | Onto neighboring property | - |
| Shielding required | Yes, for spillover fixtures | - |
| Residential limit | Strictest at property line | - |
| Recommended controls | Cutoff, timers, sensors | - |
| Enforcement | Code special magistrate | Codes Compliance |
| City code | - | Sec. 16.40.070(4) |
| Standard | - | No glare or trespass |
| Applies to | - | All exterior lighting |
| First fine cap | - | $250 per day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
St. Petersburg FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights in St. Petersburg?
File a complaint with St. Petersburg Codes Compliance citing Section 16.40.070(4). Inspectors document the trespass at your property line and issue a notice requiring shielding or reaiming.
Are motion-sensor security lights allowed in St. Petersburg?
Yes. Motion lights are allowed, but they must be shielded and aimed so the beam does not produce glare or light trespass onto an adjoining property under Section 16.40.070(4).
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