Light Trespass: Reedley vs Selma
How do light trespass rules compare between Reedley, CA and Selma, CA?
Reedley and Selma have similar restriction levels.
Reedley, CA
Fresno County
Reedley addresses light trespass primarily through its property nuisance provisions under City Code Section 4-2-3, which classifies conditions materially detrimental to nearby properties as nuisances. The city does not set specific measurable limits for light trespass in foot-candles or lumens at property boundaries. Enforcement is complaint-driven, and residents experiencing intrusive lighting from neighbors may file a nuisance complaint with code enforcement.
View full Reedley rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma addresses light trespass through zoning performance standards and nuisance provisions. Outdoor lighting must be shielded to prevent illumination from spilling onto adjacent properties.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Reedley | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| Measurable Limits | None specified in code | - |
| Enforcement Approach | Complaint-driven nuisance process | - |
| Governing Code | Section 4-2-3 (nuisance provisions) | - |
| State Law Option | CA Civil Code 3479 (private nuisance) | - |
| Code Enforcement | (559) 637-4200 | - |
| Footcandle Limits | - | Not numerically specified |
| Standard | - | No direct visibility of light source at property line |
| Commercial Review | - | Site plan review required |
| Enforcement | - | Complaint-based via Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Reedley FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights shining into my home in Reedley?
File a nuisance complaint with Reedley's code enforcement division at (559) 637-4200. Light that is materially detrimental to your property may be addressed under City Code Section 4-2-3. You may also pursue a private nuisance action under California Civil Code Section 3479.
Does Reedley have specific foot-candle limits for light at property lines?
No. Reedley does not set measurable light trespass thresholds. Light intrusion is evaluated on a case-by-case basis under the general property nuisance framework. New commercial developments may have lighting conditions imposed during site plan review.
Selma FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright light shining into my property in Selma?
File a complaint with Code Enforcement at 559-891-2207 or through the OpenGov portal. Excessive lighting that affects neighboring properties can be treated as a nuisance under SMC Chapter 8-7.
Does Selma set specific brightness limits at the property line?
No. Selma does not specify numerical footcandle limits but requires outdoor lighting to be shielded and directed so the light source is not visible from adjacent properties.
Compare other topics
See how Reedley and Selma compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool