Unincorporated Arapahoe County's Land Development Code Section 4-400 regulates exterior lighting. Fixtures must be fully shielded and directed downward, with illumination levels limited at the property line to prevent light trespass onto adjacent residential properties.
Arapahoe County Land Development Code Article 4, Section 4-400 governs outdoor lighting in unincorporated areas. All exterior lighting fixtures must be full-cutoff (fully shielded) with the light source not visible from adjacent property. Illumination at any residential property boundary may not exceed 0.5 foot-candles measured at grade. Commercial and industrial properties face similar boundary limits where they abut residential zones. Flood, spot, and security lights must be aimed so the beam does not project beyond the property. Sign lighting must be shielded to prevent upward illumination of the sky. Temporary holiday decorative lighting is exempt between November 15 and January 31. The Planning Division enforces violations via code enforcement complaints.
Code enforcement issues a Notice of Violation with typically 30 days to correct. Continued violations are Class 2 petty offenses under the Land Development Code with fines up to $500 per day each day the violation continues. Commercial properties may face accelerated enforcement.
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See how Arapahoe County's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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