Burleson, TX Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)

The rule is § 8-44 of Appendix C, Urban Design Standards, Article VIII, Multi-Family Design Standards, in the Burleson Code of Ordinances. Subsection (a) says energy efficiency, color rendition, safety, security and overall effect are all considered in project lighting design, and then makes two requirements. First, lighting sources shall have cut off lenses and/or shields and shall be located to avoid light spillage and glare on adjacent properties and in private spaces. Second, lighting shall not be permitted to trespass onto adjacent private parcels, and the luminaire shall not be visible at the property line. All building lights are directed onto the building itself and/or the ground immediately adjacent to it.

The section adds height rules that shape how much light can reach a neighbor. Subsection (b) calls for pedestrian-scale lighting in walkways, plazas, play lots and parking areas, and defines lighting less than 10 feet in height as pedestrian scale. Subsection (c) caps pole mounted and other freestanding or projected mounts at 25 feet and bollards at 4 feet. Subsection (d) requires every fixture 15 feet and taller to be fitted with a full cut-off shield.

Section 8-3 sets the scope: the article applies to all properties designated as Multi-Family, and where it conflicts with other parts of the Burleson Code of Ordinances, the article controls. It applies to main and accessory uses for all new construction, when an existing building is remodeled, altered, added to or expanded at a construction value above fifty percent of its current appraised value on the latest approved tax roll, and when an addition increases gross floor area by twenty percent or greater. Section 8-25 requires a commercial site plan review by the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) before a building permit, to confirm the design standards are met. Section 8-26 sends any modification of the standards through DAC review and final approval by the City Council.