Light Trespass: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do light trespass rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Rockville and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Rockville prohibits outdoor lighting that creates unreasonable glare or light trespass onto neighboring properties. Commercial and multifamily projects must limit illumination to 0.5 footcandles at property lines. Residential lighting complaints are handled through the code enforcement nuisance process, and violators must redirect or shield fixtures within 30 days of notice.
View full Rockville rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Light trespass limited to 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines under the Zoning Ordinance. Complaints handled through MC311 and DPS code enforcement.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Property Line Limit | 0.5 footcandles for commercial | - |
| Correction Period | 30 days from notice | 30 days after notice |
| Security Lights | Must illuminate only owners property | - |
| HOA Rules | May impose stricter limits | - |
| Code Enforcement | 240-314-8530 | - |
| Limit | - | 0.5 foot-candles at residential property line |
| Complaints | - | MC311 or DPS Code Enforcement |
| New Development | - | Photometric plan required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rockville FAQ
How do I report light trespass in Rockville?
Contact Code Enforcement at 240-314-8530 to file a complaint. An inspector will evaluate whether the lighting creates unreasonable illumination on your property and may issue a correction notice to the offending property owner.
Can my neighbor point a floodlight at my house in Rockville?
No. Security and outdoor lighting must be directed to illuminate only the owners property. Lighting creating unreasonable glare on adjacent properties is a nuisance violation subject to correction notices and fines.
Takoma Park FAQ
My neighbors floodlight shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
File a complaint through MC311. Montgomery County limits light trespass to 0.5 foot-candles at your property line. Code enforcement will investigate and may require your neighbor to shield or redirect the light.
What is the light trespass standard in Montgomery County?
Outdoor lighting from any property must not exceed 0.5 foot-candles at the nearest residential property line. All new fixtures must be full-cutoff shielded types.
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