Bakersfield addresses light trespass primarily through its zoning standards for commercial and industrial properties, which require outdoor lighting to be directed away from adjacent residential areas. Residential light trespass complaints are handled through nuisance provisions under the municipal code.
New commercial and industrial developments must design outdoor lighting to minimize light spillover onto adjacent residential properties. This includes shielding requirements and maximum illumination levels at property lines. Residential properties are subject to general nuisance standards — outdoor lighting that unreasonably interferes with a neighbor's use and enjoyment of their property may be declared a nuisance. The city's code enforcement division investigates lighting complaints on a case-by-case basis.
Commercial properties violating lighting standards face zoning code enforcement actions. Residential light trespass complaints may result in nuisance abatement orders if the lighting is found to be unreasonable. The city may require modifications to lighting fixtures, shielding, or aiming to resolve complaints.
Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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See how Bakersfield's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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