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πŸ’‘ Outdoor Lighting/Light Trespass

Light Trespass: Flower Mound vs Lewisville

How do light trespass rules compare between Flower Mound, TX and Lewisville, TX?

Lewisville has fewer restrictions than Flower Mound.

Flower Mound, TX

Denton County

Some Restrictions

Flower Mound limits light trespass from commercial and multifamily properties to no more than 0.5 footcandles measured at the adjacent residential property line. The town's development standards require photometric plans demonstrating compliance before issuance of building permits for new non-residential projects. Post-construction enforcement uses calibrated light meter readings taken by code compliance officers in response to resident complaints. Residential complaints about excessive lighting from neighboring commercial or multifamily developments are investigated through the code compliance process. For residential-to-residential disputes involving security lights, floodlights, or landscape lighting, the town addresses extreme cases as general nuisances under Chapter 30 of the Code of Ordinances, though specific footcandle limits are not applied between single-family homes. HOA architectural committees in communities like Bridlewood and Wellington often review and restrict exterior lighting installations as part of their design review process.

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Lewisville, TX

Denton County

Few Restrictions

Lewisville limits light spillover from commercial and multifamily developments onto adjacent residential properties to 0.5 foot-candles at the property line under Unified Development Code Chapter 114. All commercial exterior fixtures must be full-cutoff design directing light downward rather than outward or upward, verified during site plan review and inspected prior to certificate of occupancy. Residential-to-residential light trespass is addressed through general nuisance provisions in Chapter 42 rather than specific illumination limits, with Code Enforcement evaluating complaints on a case-by-case basis. HOA architectural review committees in Castle Hills and Valley Vista may enforce additional exterior lighting standards.

View full Lewisville rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactFlower MoundLewisville
Maximum at Property Line0.5 footcandles at residential boundary-
Photometric PlanRequired for new commercial/multifamily-
Enforcement MethodCalibrated meter readings-
Fine RangeUp to $2,000 per day-
Residential DisputesChapter 30 nuisance provisions-
Commercial Limit-0.5 foot-candles at residential boundary
Residential Limit-No specific limit -- nuisance standard
Fixture Requirement-Full-cutoff for commercial
HOA Standards-May apply in Castle Hills, Valley Vista
Code Enforcement-(972) 219-3437

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Flower Mound FAQ

What is the light trespass limit in Flower Mound?

Commercial and multifamily properties may not produce more than 0.5 footcandles measured at an adjacent residential property line. This standard is enforced through photometric plan review during development and through calibrated light meter readings post-construction.

My neighbor's security light shines into my bedroom. Can the town help?

For residential-to-residential disputes, the town does not enforce a specific footcandle limit. However, excessively bright lighting directed at neighboring homes may be addressed as a general nuisance under Chapter 30. Contact Code Compliance to file a complaint and request an investigation.

How is light trespass measured?

Code compliance officers use a calibrated footcandle light meter to take readings at the property line during nighttime hours. Measurements are taken at the closest point where the affected residential property meets the boundary of the source property.

Lewisville FAQ

What is the light trespass limit for commercial properties in Lewisville?

Commercial outdoor lighting must not exceed 0.5 foot-candles at property lines adjacent to residential zoning districts. All fixtures must be full-cutoff design directing light downward.

Can I complain about a neighbors security light shining into my yard?

Yes. While Lewisville does not set specific residential light limits, excessive light that interferes with the use and enjoyment of your property may be addressed as a nuisance under Chapter 42. Contact Code Enforcement at (972) 219-3437.

Do HOAs regulate outdoor lighting in Lewisville?

Many HOA communities including Castle Hills and Valley Vista enforce architectural standards for exterior lighting including fixture type, placement, and wattage. Check your deed restrictions and HOA guidelines.

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