Converse, TX Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 28-8(2), Code of Ordinances
- Applies to
- All off-street parking facilities
- Standard
- Design standard, not numeric limit
- Enforced by
- Site-plan and building-permit review
- Max fine
- $500 per offense (Sec. 1-14)
Summary
Converse requires off-street parking lot lighting to be arranged so the light source doesn't obstruct public view or detract from neighboring properties, while still giving the lot adequate nighttime security lighting.
Off-street parking facilities shall be constructed, maintained and operated in accordance with the following specifications:
(1)Wheel stops. Boundary or perimeter areas shall be provided with wheel stops, bumper guards, concrete or asphalt curbs so located that no part of a parked vehicle will extend beyond the property line of the parking area.(2)Lighting. Facilities shall be arranged so that the source of light is prevented from obstructing public view and from detracting from adjacent properties and does not interfere with traffic while providing adequate nighttime visual security.(3)Prohibition of other uses. Facilities shall not be used for the sale, repair, dismantling or servicing of any vehicles, equipment, materials or supplies.(4)Drainage and surfacing. Areas shall be properly graded for drainage, with an all-weather surface of concrete, asphalt or chip seal coat and maintained in good condition, free of weeds, dirt, trash, and debris. When installing parking spaces in the district, the parking area should be graded and drained in such a manner that there will be no free flow of water onto adjacent properties. All drainage provisions will be approved by the city engineer. Every effort shall be made to retain trees as a hedge against erosion.(5)Entrances and exits. Facilities shall be provided with entrances and exits so located as to minimize traffic congestion. (Ord. No. 624, § VI, 12-21-1999; Ord. No. 624, § VII, 3-16-2010)
Full Breakdown
Sec. 28-8(2) of the Code of Ordinances governs every off-street parking facility built in Converse, required alongside wheel stops, drainage, and access-aisle standards for any commercial, multifamily, or mixed-use lot. It doesn't set a numeric footcandle cap at the property line; instead it requires the fixtures be arranged so the light source doesn't obstruct public view, detract from adjacent properties, or interfere with traffic, while still delivering enough nighttime visual security. City staff apply the standard during site-plan and building-permit review, pole height, fixture aim, and shielding are the practical levers to keep glare off a neighbor's yard.
Violations & Fines
Enforced during permit and site-plan review, plus code-enforcement complaints; unresolved violations fall under the citywide general penalty, Sec. 1-14: up to $500 per offense, with each continuing day a separate violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Converse limit light spilling onto my property from a business next door?
Is there a specific footcandle limit at the property line?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Converse
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Converse to another location·View the Texas outdoor lighting overview
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Light Trespass & Shielding in Nearby Cities
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