Berkeley Zoning Ordinance Title 23 prohibits outdoor lighting that creates glare or excessive illumination onto neighboring properties, with civil remedies under state nuisance law.
Berkeley Municipal Code Title 23 requires outdoor lighting to be designed and installed so it does not create glare, excessive illumination, or light trespass onto adjacent properties. Typical standards limit light levels at property lines to 0.1 foot-candles at residential boundaries. Property owners receiving light spill can file complaints with Planning and Development Department Code Enforcement, which can issue notices of violation requiring fixture reaiming, shielding, or replacement. California civil law provides nuisance remedies under Civil Code 3479 for unreasonable interference with use and enjoyment of property. Neighbors should first attempt informal resolution before filing complaints. Security lights are permitted but must be shielded or motion-activated. Commercial property lighting facing residential areas requires enhanced shielding under zoning rules.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle light trespass.
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