Charlotte's UDO establishes light trespass standards that limit the amount of light from one property that spills onto adjacent properties. New development must design lighting plans so that illumination at the property line does not exceed specified footcandle limits. Residents affected by excessive light from neighboring commercial or multifamily properties can file complaints with Code Enforcement.
Charlotte codes prohibit light trespass, defined as artificial light that illuminates areas beyond the property where the fixture is installed. Residential properties typically must keep light levels below 0.5 to 1.0 foot-candles at the property line. Security lights must be aimed and shielded to illuminate only the owner's property. Floodlights aimed at neighboring homes are prohibited. String lights and decorative lighting must not create glare for neighbors or passing traffic. Holiday lighting may have temporary exemptions. Commercial properties face stricter standards with measured lumen limits at property boundaries.
Light trespass complaint: warning and 30-day correction period. Non-compliance: fines $100 to $300 per violation. Repeated complaints: escalating fines. Commercial violations: up to $1,000.
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