Light trespass (glare onto neighboring property) addressed through nuisance provisions in most Albany County zoning codes. Excessive glare may trigger code enforcement review.
Light trespass complaints in Albany County are typically resolved under general zoning nuisance provisions rather than dedicated lighting ordinances. Bethlehem, Guilderland, Colonie, New Scotland, and the City of Albany all include site-plan-review provisions that require exterior lighting to not cause glare that is objectionable or creates a hazard to motorists or adjacent property. Quantitative standards (footcandles at property line) are enforced for commercial and multi-family sites but rarely for single-family residences. Persistent residential disputes over porch lights, security floodlights, or landscape illumination are typically handled through code enforcement warnings and, failing compliance, civil action between neighbors. NY common law recognizes private nuisance claims for substantial interference with use and enjoyment of land, which courts have applied to extreme light-trespass cases.
Nuisance lighting violations typically 50 to 250 dollars per day. Commercial site-plan noncompliance can trigger site plan revocation and larger fines.
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See how Albany's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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