DeKalb County zoning prohibits light trespass onto neighboring residential properties above specified foot-candle thresholds. Complaints handled by Code Enforcement via SeeClickFix or direct report.
DeKalb County's lighting standards define light trespass as illumination at a residential property line above specified maximum foot-candle levels (commonly 0.1 to 0.5 fc depending on zone classification). Security floodlights must be aimed and shielded so they illuminate only the originating property. Decorative, string, and landscape lighting must not create disabling glare for neighbors or roadway traffic. Residents report light trespass through the SeeClickFix app or directly to DeKalb Code Enforcement. Commercial-to-residential spillover along major corridors (Buford Highway, Memorial Drive, Lawrenceville Highway) is a frequent enforcement area. Temporary holiday lighting receives a seasonal exemption.
First complaint: warning and 30-day correction. Failure to correct: $100 to $500 per violation. Commercial violations: up to $1,000 per day. Repeated residential violations: escalating fines.
DeKalb County, GA
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DeKalb County, GA
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DeKalb County, GA
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DeKalb County, GA
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DeKalb County, GA
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DeKalb County, GA
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See how DeKalb County's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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