Auburn, WA Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Light trespass occurs when outdoor lighting from one parcel illuminates a neighboring property or public right-of-way beyond permitted levels. Auburn addresses light trespass through ACC Title 18 lighting performance standards and general nuisance provisions in ACC Title 8. Residential outdoor fixtures must be installed so the light source is not directly visible from adjacent residential uses and so illumination does not unreasonably interfere with the use or enjoyment of neighboring parcels. Commercial lighting plans set maximum illumination levels at property lines adjacent to residential zones, often expressed in foot-candles. Common violations include unshielded garage-mounted floods, motion-sensitive security lights aimed horizontally, and commercial wall packs spilling onto homes along the interface between industrial zones near SR-167 and adjoining residential streets. Complaints are investigated by Auburn Code Enforcement; officers may require reaiming fixtures, adding shielding, using timers, or replacing bulbs with lower-lumen alternatives. Holiday decorative lighting is generally allowed in limited seasonal windows and is handled more leniently unless clearly intrusive. Residents can also request voluntary mediation through the Dispute Resolution Center of King County. Sleep-impacting lighting aimed at bedroom windows is particularly likely to draw citations. Reports can be submitted through the Auburn Report a Concern tool or by calling (253) 931-3000.