Denver County, CO Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Light trespass — artificial light that illuminates property beyond where the fixture is installed — is addressed in Denver through a combination of zoning (DZC Article 10 spill-light limits), nuisance ordinance (DRMC §24 and §36 general nuisance provisions), and common-law nuisance principles. At residential property lines, Denver's design standards cap illuminance at approximately 0.5-1.0 foot-candle when measured at the receiving property. Floodlights and security lights must be aimed and shielded to illuminate only the owner's property; aiming a floodlight at a neighbor's home, yard, or bedroom windows is specifically cited in enforcement guidance. Decorative string lights and holiday lighting get temporary seasonal tolerance but cannot create glare that disturbs sleep or traffic safety. Commercial parking lots face stricter numeric spill limits and must comply with the Green Buildings Ordinance. Enforcement is complaint-driven through Denver 311; Neighborhood Inspection Services investigates, issues 30-day correction notices, and escalates to fines if uncured. Persistent light-trespass cases often resolve through civil neighbor mediation via the Community Mediation Center.