Light Trespass: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do light trespass rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC 93.0117 prohibits any stationary exterior light that causes neighboring residential windows, sliding glass doors, or elevated habitable areas to be illuminated by more than 2 footcandles or receive direct glare. Property owners must bring non-compliant lights into compliance upon written notice from LADBS. Holiday decorative lights (300 lumens or less per source) are exempt Nov 25-Jan 15.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Outdoor lighting in Santa Monica must not create glare or light trespass per SMMC §9.21.080. Violations of lighting standards are enforceable under the property maintenance code. No flashing, strobing, or unshielded lights toward residential properties.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Max 2 footcandles at neighbor property | - |
| Protected Areas | Windows, doors, balconies, decks | - |
| Enforcement | LADBS written notice to comply | Property maintenance code |
| Holiday Exemption | Nov 25-Jan 15, 300 lumens or less | - |
| Code | - | SMMC §9.21.080 |
| Prohibited | - | Glare toward residential |
| Shielding | - | Required for exterior fixtures |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
My neighbor's floodlight shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
File a light trespass complaint with Los Angeles code enforcement. Most codes require lights to be shielded and aimed so they don't illuminate neighboring properties.
Are holiday lights exempt from light trespass rules?
Temporary holiday displays are often exempt during the holiday season, typically November through January. However, they still cannot create a safety hazard.
Santa Monica FAQ
My neighbor's floodlight shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
File a light trespass complaint with Santa Monica code enforcement. Most codes require lights to be shielded and aimed so they don't illuminate neighboring properties.
Are holiday lights exempt from light trespass rules?
Temporary holiday displays are often exempt during the holiday season, typically November through January. However, they still cannot create a safety hazard.
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