Light Trespass: Englewood vs Mahwah

How tall can outdoor lighting poles be in Englewood?

The maximum fixture height under Englewood's zoning is 18 feet, applying to commercial and parking-area lighting in regulated districts.

How much light can spill onto a neighbor's property?

Illumination on adjacent properties is capped at 0.2 footcandle measured at the property line, the local light-trespass limit.

Are illuminated murals restricted in residential zones?

Yes. Murals or public art in residential zones cannot be illuminated between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., and may not exceed 3 footcandles above ambient at the nearest residential property line.

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.