Boulder City, NV Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Light trespass, defined as unwanted light falling on adjacent property beyond the source property line, is regulated under the Boulder City outdoor lighting ordinance. Property owners must aim fixtures and use shielding to prevent significant light from crossing property lines into neighboring yards, windows, or rights-of-way. Typical standards limit illuminance at residential property lines to approximately 0.1 to 0.5 footcandles depending on the zone. Floodlights and landscape accent lighting must be positioned so the luminaire is not visible from neighboring windows. Unshielded lights, bare bulbs, and high-intensity sports or commercial lighting near residential boundaries are specifically restricted. Affected neighbors may first raise concerns directly with the offending property owner, and unresolved issues can be reported to Code Enforcement. Violations are typically handled with a notice of violation and a correction period before fines. Temporary holiday or event lighting has limited exemptions. The ordinance works in conjunction with general nuisance provisions if lighting interferes substantially with use and enjoyment of neighboring property. HOA communities may impose stricter standards beyond the city ordinance.