Outdoor Lighting in Carteret County, NC (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Carteret County, North Carolina.
Verified from official government sources
Light Trespass & Shielding
Zoning Ordinance Sec. 3009.3 controls light trespass from non-residential uses in unincorporated Carteret County. Outdoor lighting must be aimed downward and away from residential uses or districts within 500 feet of the lighted property's lot lines, and after 11:00 p.m. (or closing, if earlier) it must be dimmed by at least 25 percent.
Carteret County Outdoor Lighting Trespass Rule
Some RestrictionsCarteret County Zoning Ordinance § 3009.3
3009.3. Outdoor lighting shall be installed so that the light that is emitted is directed downward and away from any residential uses and/or districts that are located within 500 feet of all lot lines on the lighted property. After hours or 11:00 p.m., whichever is earlier, such lighting shall be dimmed by at least 25 percent.
Billboard Lighting
Unincorporated Carteret County bans glare from any illuminated sign, including billboards: Zoning Ordinance Section 2102.3 forbids light so designed or placed that it creates a hazard or annoyance to motorists or neighboring property. Every LED sign, including electronic billboards, must carry automatic dimming controls that lower brightness at night.
Billboard and Sign Lighting Rules in Carteret County
Some RestrictionsCarteret County Zoning Ordinance § 2102.3
2102.3. Illuminated signs. No illuminated sign shall be so designed or placed that direct or reflected light or glare constitutes a hazard or annoyance to motorists or occupants of adjoining properties. All LED signs shall have automatic dimming controls, either by photocell (hardwired) or via software settings, in order to bring down the lighting level at night.
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