Citrus Heights, CA Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Nuisance Law
- Civil Code §3479
- Local
- CHMC zoning lighting rules
- Remedy
- Shield, aim down, reduce
- Court Action
- Private nuisance available
- Security Lights
- OK with motion sensor
Summary
Light trespass onto neighboring properties in Citrus Heights is actionable under CHMC nuisance provisions and Civil Code §3479. Light shining directly into residential windows or bedrooms can be declared a public nuisance subject to abatement.
Anything which is injurious to health, including, but not limited to, the illegal sale of controlled substances, or is indecent or offensive to the senses, or an obstruction to the free use of property, so as to interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property, or unlawfully obstructs the free passage or use, in the customary manner, of any navigable lake, or river, bay, stream, canal, or basin, or any public park, square, street, or highway, is a nuisance.
Full Breakdown
Citrus Heights treats persistent, excessive light trespass as a private and public nuisance. Under Civil Code §3479, 'anything which is injurious to health... or an obstruction to the free use of property, so as to interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property' qualifies as a nuisance: courts have applied this to egregious light pollution. Locally, the CHMC zoning code requires outdoor lighting to be designed so that light does not spill onto adjacent residential properties. Code enforcement can issue notice and abatement orders. Remedies may include shielding fixtures, re-aiming, reducing wattage, or installing timers. For disputes between neighbors, small claims court and private nuisance actions (Civil Code §3481) are available, with potential injunctive relief. Security lighting with motion sensors is generally considered reasonable if it points downward and doesn't stay on continuously. Commercial properties adjacent to residential areas face stricter requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
My neighbor's floodlight shines in my bedroom: what can I do?
Are motion-activated security lights OK?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Citrus Heights
California rules heatmap·Compare Citrus Heights to another location·View the California outdoor lighting overview
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