East Brunswick, NJ Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)

Chapter 192, Design Guidelines & Standards, states in § 192-1 that it provides guidelines for site plan, P.U.R.D. and subdivision design. The lighting standard in § 192-39, amended 11-24-2014 by Ord. No. 14-13, sits inside that chapter, so it is applied by the Planning Board or Zoning Board when a development is reviewed.

Subsection D sets the numbers. Distribution of lighting is even throughout the site, with a minimum of 0.50 footcandles and an average of 0.75 footcandles throughout all vehicular and pedestrian areas. Spillage of light from a property is limited to no more than 0.1 footcandles, and all lighting must be directed into the site. Fixtures are stanchion mounted or bollards serviced underground, and building mounted fixtures where the light source is visible are prohibited. Subsection C caps mounting height at the height of the building or twenty-five (25) feet, whichever is less. Subsection G requires a point by point lighting analysis with a maximum grid of ten (10') foot by ten (10') foot on a lighting plan showing footcandle levels of existing and proposed lighting; subsections E and F add the manufacturer and number of each fixture and a detail of the fixture and pole.

Other sections in the chapter push the same direction. Section 192-12 requires directional lights arranged to minimize glare and reflections on adjacent properties. Section 192-13 calls for perimeter buffering to minimize off-site glare from vehicle headlights and light from structures. Section 192-7 directs that streets, lots, parking areas and buildings mitigate adverse effects of glare on neighboring properties. Under § 192-4, the Planning or Zoning Board can waive a requirement where literal enforcement is impracticable or will exact undue hardship, and § 192-2 lets the approving Board apply more stringent requirements.