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Anderson, IN Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Standard
Shielded, no-nuisance illumination
Light aim
Directed solely at object
Shielding
All sides and top
Flashing lights
Prohibited
Backstop
City nuisance code

Summary

Anderson's Zoning Code defines illumination as a shielded light directed solely at an object so the brightness does not create a nuisance, and requires all site lights to be fully shielded down-lighting. Spillover glare onto neighbors can be addressed as a nuisance and a zoning violation.

ILLUMINATION: An internal or external light source characterized by a steady, stationary, shielded, or shaded light directed solely at an object (i.e. sign, building) or internal to it so that the light intensity or brightness does not create either a nuisance.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

The Code's illumination definition contemplates a steady, stationary, shielded or shaded light directed solely at an object so that intensity or brightness does not create a nuisance. Combined with the requirement that all lights be down-lighting completely shielded on all sides and top, this limits light trespass onto adjoining properties. Flashing and moving lights are prohibited outright. Beyond zoning, glare that unreasonably interferes with a neighbor's use of their property can also be pursued under the city's general nuisance provisions and Indiana nuisance law. Property owners troubled by a neighbor's lighting should document the spillover and contact Code Enforcement.

Violations & Fines

Lighting that creates a nuisance or is non-conforming can be cited by Code Enforcement; abatement orders and fines follow if the owner does not shield or redirect it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do about a neighbor's bright light shining on my house?
Anderson's Code requires shielded, downward lighting that does not create a nuisance. Document the spillover and report it to Code Enforcement, which can require the owner to shield or redirect the fixture.
Does Anderson set a specific footcandle limit at the property line?
The Code does not publish a numeric spillover limit; it relies on the shielded down-lighting standard and the nuisance test that brightness not create a nuisance.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Anderson

Dark Sky RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Neighbor Fence RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome Restrictions

All Anderson rules

Compare Anderson to another location·View the Indiana outdoor lighting overview

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