Light Trespass: St. Petersburg vs Tarpon Springs
How do light trespass rules compare between St. Petersburg, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
St. Petersburg and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg Section 16.40.070 prohibits glare and light trespass onto abutting properties, requiring shielded fixtures and limiting illumination at the property line.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Tarpon Springs zoning code prohibits outdoor lighting that casts direct glare or excessive illumination onto neighboring property, requiring shielded fixtures and downward-directed lamps as part of site-plan and nuisance review.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | St. Petersburg | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| City code | Sec. 16.40.070(4) | - |
| Standard | No glare or trespass | - |
| Applies to | All exterior lighting | - |
| Enforcement | Codes Compliance | Code enforcement officers |
| First fine cap | $250 per day | - |
| Code basis | - | Zoning performance standards |
| Plan review | - | Photometric required, site plans |
| Fixture rule | - | Shielded, downward-directed |
| Trespass measure | - | Foot-candles at property line |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
St. Petersburg FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights in St. Petersburg?
File a complaint with St. Petersburg Codes Compliance citing Section 16.40.070(4). Inspectors document the trespass at your property line and issue a notice requiring shielding or reaiming.
Are motion-sensor security lights allowed in St. Petersburg?
Yes. Motion lights are allowed, but they must be shielded and aimed so the beam does not produce glare or light trespass onto an adjoining property under Section 16.40.070(4).
Tarpon Springs FAQ
My neighbor's floodlight shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
File a complaint with Tarpon Springs Code Enforcement; officers can inspect, measure light levels at the property line, and order shielding or aim adjustments under nuisance and zoning rules.
Are motion-activated security lights allowed?
Yes, motion lights are generally allowed if they are shielded and aimed downward; a fixture that floods a neighbor's property even briefly can still be cited as light trespass.
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