Albuquerque addresses light trespass through the IDO outdoor lighting standards and the state Night Sky Protection Act. Outdoor lighting must be designed and aimed to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties. Full-cutoff fixtures are required to minimize both upward light waste and horizontal light trespass.
The IDO establishes maximum illumination levels at property boundaries to prevent light trespass. Lighting plans for new development must demonstrate that light does not exceed specified foot-candle levels at property lines, particularly at the boundary between commercial and residential zones. Full-cutoff fixtures are required to eliminate light above the horizontal plane. Security lighting must be aimed and shielded to illuminate only the intended area. Existing non-compliant fixtures may be required to be retrofitted when properties are redeveloped. Complaints about light trespass are handled through the code enforcement process.
Light trespass complaints are investigated by Code Enforcement. Property owners may receive a notice to correct non-compliant lighting within a specified period. Persistent violations may result in fines. New development that does not meet photometric standards may be denied permits or occupancy certificates.
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