Albany, NY Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)

The City's USDO applies its outdoor lighting standards to all new exterior fixtures and equipment replacements, whether mounted on structures, poles, or the ground (§ 375-408(2)(a)). Under § 375-408(3)(a)(iv), light trespass onto adjacent properties cannot exceed 0.1 footcandle measured at the lot line, except where the property abuts a walkway, driveway, or public or private street. Wall packs face the same 0.1-footcandle cutoff beyond the lot line under § 375-408(3)(b)(iv), except in the I-2 District. Streetlights and traffic devices installed by a government agency are exempt (§ 375-408(2)(d)), as is temporary lighting for events, construction, or holidays discontinued within seven days (§ 375-408(2)(b)).