Light Trespass: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do light trespass rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way treats neighbor light complaints as code nuisances. Lighting that directly shines onto another residential property, especially into windows, can be ordered corrected.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle addresses light trespass through land use code development standards and general nuisance provisions, requiring outdoor lighting to be directed downward and shielded to prevent spillover onto adjacent properties.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger | Light onto neighbor lot | - |
| Commercial limit | ~0.5 fc at residential line | - |
| First step | Shield or re-aim fixture | - |
| Enforcement | Federal Way Code Compliance | - |
| Commercial Standard | - | Shielded, downward-directed fixtures required for commercial development |
| Design Review | - | Larger projects evaluated for lighting neighborhood compatibility |
| Nuisance Provision | - | SMC 10.09 covers unreasonable light trespass |
| Complaint Process | - | SDCI handles complaints about commercial and multifamily lighting |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I complain about a neighbor floodlight?
Yes, file a code complaint describing the fixture and its impact on your windows or yard.
Is there a wattage limit?
No fixed watt cap for residential, but the light must be shielded so it does not trespass onto adjacent property.
Seattle FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's security light shining into my bedroom?
Start by talking to your neighbor, as many are willing to adjust their lighting. If that fails, you can file a nuisance complaint under SMC 10.09 for unreasonable light trespass. For commercial or multifamily properties with non-compliant lighting, file a complaint with SDCI, which can enforce land use code lighting standards.
Are there specific light trespass standards in Seattle?
Seattle does not have specific foot-candle limits for light trespass at property lines like some jurisdictions. Instead, the land use code requires shielded, downward-directed lighting for new development, and the general nuisance ordinance addresses unreasonable light conditions that interfere with neighboring property use.
Compare other topics
See how Federal Way and Seattle 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