Costa Mesa, CA Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Costa Mesa addresses light trespass through multiple provisions in the Municipal Code. Under Title 13 (Zoning and Development), exterior lighting on new construction and significant remodels must be designed and directed so that it does not shine directly onto adjacent properties or create glare visible from public streets. Shielded and downward-directed fixtures are required to prevent light from spilling beyond property boundaries. Under Title 20 (Property Maintenance), lighting conditions that unreasonably disturb the comfort or enjoyment of neighboring property owners may constitute a public nuisance subject to enforcement action. This applies to both residential and commercial properties. Common sources of light trespass complaints include unshielded floodlights, security lights aimed at neighboring windows, and commercial lighting from adjacent businesses. Residents experiencing light trespass can file a complaint with the Community Improvement Division. Code enforcement officers investigate complaints and work with the offending property to resolve the issue, which may include requiring fixture adjustments, adding shielding, or reducing brightness. If voluntary compliance is not achieved, the city may issue administrative citations.