Light trespass is regulated by municipal bylaws and Massachusetts nuisance law. Spillover above 0.1 foot-candle onto residential property is typically prohibited.
Light trespass claims in Middlesex County rest on two pillars. First, the local zoning or general bylaw usually caps light spill at the property line, commonly 0.1 foot-candle for residential abutters and 0.5 foot-candle for commercial boundaries, measured 3 to 5 feet above grade. Second, Massachusetts common-law nuisance protects neighbors against unreasonable interference with the use and enjoyment of property, including glare or excessive illumination. Enforcement is typically by the zoning enforcement officer or building commissioner. Court remedies include injunctions and damages. Logan airport approach lighting and highway fixtures are regulated separately by MassDOT and the FAA.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Middlesex County, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle light trespass.
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