Light Trespass: Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do light trespass rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Fontana and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana treats light trespass as a zoning violation under FMC Title 17 and a nuisance under Civil Code 3479. Property-line levels facing residential parcels are capped; neighbors can pursue civil remedies.
View full Fontana rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino Development Code prohibits outdoor lighting that causes glare or light trespass onto neighbors or streets. Typical limits cap residential property-line light to 0.1 footcandle.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| City Limit | 0.5 fc at residential line | - |
| Nuisance Law | California Civil Code 3479 | - |
| Shielding | Required (commercial) | - |
| Remedy | Citation or injunction | - |
| Enforcement | Code Enforcement + court | - |
| Residential Limit | - | 0.1 footcandle at property line |
| Nuisance Statute | - | Civil Code 3479 |
| Shielding Required | - | Lamp not visible off-site |
| Mediation Option | - | Inland Fair Housing Board |
| Holiday Exemption | - | Seasonal lights exempt |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
How bright can a Fontana commercial site shine onto my home?
Typically no more than 0.5 foot-candles at the shared property line. Measure with an inexpensive light meter and contact Code Enforcement if exceeded.
Can I sue a neighbor over bright security lights?
Yes in extreme cases. Excessive light that substantially interferes with your use of your home is a private nuisance under Civil Code 3479, though courts usually require proof of significant harm.
San Bernardino FAQ
My neighbor's flood light shines into my bedroom — what can I do?
Ask the neighbor to shield or reaim the fixture first. If unresolved, file a Code Enforcement complaint citing the outdoor lighting section of the Development Code. Persistent glare into a bedroom can support a private nuisance claim under Civil Code 3479.
Do Christmas lights count as light trespass?
Seasonal holiday decorative lights are typically exempt from lighting standards during the holiday period (commonly November through early January). Year-round string lights aimed at neighbors could be treated as nuisance or violate the outdoor lighting ordinance.
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