Light Trespass: Kirkland vs Redmond
How do light trespass rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Redmond, WA?
Kirkland and Redmond have similar restriction levels.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Kirkland prohibits light trespass from one property onto another under KMC Title 115 lighting standards and nuisance provisions, with enforcement through Neighborhood Services when complaints are substantiated.
View full Kirkland rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond light trespass is controlled through property-line foot-candle limits in RMC Title 21 for commercial sites and the general nuisance code for residential lighting that disturbs neighbors.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Code | KMC Title 115 + Title 21 | - |
| Standard | Shielded downward lighting | - |
| Commercial | Property-line illumination cap | - |
| Holiday Lights | Seasonal leniency | - |
| Report | EyeOnKirkland | - |
| Commercial cap | - | 0.1-0.5 fc at property line |
| Residential | - | Nuisance standard applies |
| First step | - | Shield or redirect fixture |
| Complaint | - | Redmond Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
My neighbor's security light shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
First ask the neighbor to reaim or shield the fixture. If that fails, file a complaint through EyeOnKirkland; Neighborhood Services can order shielding or changes under the lighting standards.
Can I keep my Christmas lights up year-round in Kirkland?
Seasonal holiday lighting is allowed, but leaving lights illuminated long after the season and causing trespass onto neighbors may be treated as a nuisance.
Redmond FAQ
My Redmond neighbor's floodlight shines in my bedroom — what now?
Ask them to shield or redirect it first, and if that fails you can file a nuisance complaint with Redmond Code Enforcement.
Can I install motion-sensor floodlights in my yard?
Yes, motion-sensor lighting is encouraged as long as it does not cause persistent glare or direct spill into a neighbor's windows.
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