Light Trespass: Lowell vs Somerville
How do light trespass rules compare between Lowell, MA and Somerville, MA?
Lowell and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Lowell caps exterior lighting spill at residential property lines to 0.1 footcandle, and chronic light trespass can be abated as a nuisance by Inspectional Services or in civil court.
View full Lowell rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville zoning limits light trespass at residential property lines to 0.1 foot-candles. Complaints are handled by ISD zoning enforcement.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lowell | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Residential cap | 0.1 footcandle | - |
| Commercial cap | 0.5 footcandle | - |
| Fixture standard | Full cutoff | - |
| Residential remedy | Nuisance claim | - |
| Residential limit | - | 0.1 fc at property line |
| Commercial limit | - | 0.5 fc at property line |
| Shielding | - | Lamp not visible from neighbor |
| Aim | - | 30 degrees below horizontal |
| Fine | - | Up to $300 per day |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lowell FAQ
My neighbors floodlight shines in my window, what can I do?
Talk to them first, then consider a nuisance complaint or small-claims action; shielding or redirection is usually the remedy.
Can a business light my yard all night?
No, their site plan lighting must keep spillover to 0.1 footcandle at a residential line; report excess to Inspectional Services.
Somerville FAQ
My neighbor's security light shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
Call Somerville 311 to file a light trespass complaint. ISD will measure and, if over the limit, order the neighbor to shield or reaim. Keep photos and dates for documentation.
Does motion-activated lighting get a pass?
Motion lights are encouraged over all-night lighting, but they still must be shielded and comply with the property-line limit during activation.
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