Light Trespass: Schaumburg vs Skokie

My neighbor's floodlight shines into my bedroom. What can I do?

File a complaint with Schaumburg Code Enforcement at (847) 895-4500. They will investigate and may require your neighbor to redirect or shield the light.

Are there specific footcandle limits for residential-to-residential lighting?

The zoning code sets explicit limits primarily for commercial-to-residential boundaries. Residential-to-residential issues are addressed through the general nuisance ordinance.

Can a business have illuminated signs facing my house?

Illuminated signs must comply with both the sign ordinance and lighting standards. If sign lighting creates excessive trespass onto your residential property, Code Enforcement can require modifications.

My commercial neighbor's lights shine into my home. What can I do?

Report to Skokie Code Enforcement at (847) 933-8284 with photos and times. The Village can measure illuminance at your property line and require shielding if commercial standards are exceeded.

What about a residential neighbor's floodlight?

Excessive residential lighting shining into your home may be addressed under nuisance provisions of the property maintenance code. Consider a direct conversation first; if unresolved, file a code complaint.

What illumination level is too much?

Commercial standards cap illumination at 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines. Residential situations don't have a hard number, but light bright enough to interfere with sleeping or daily activity typically qualifies as a nuisance.