Franklin County, WA Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- All residential zoning districts
- Standard
- No nuisance to traffic or neighbors
- Method
- Lighting must be directed or shielded
- Enforcement
- Case-by-case by Planning and Building Department
- Fixture review
- Height, type, wattage may be limited
Summary
Franklin County requires outdoor residential lighting in all residential zoning districts to be arranged so it does not become a nuisance to passing traffic or adjoining residential properties. Section 17.66.150 directs that lighting be shielded or directed to limit glare and keep it from spilling onto neighboring land.
In all residential zoning districts, outdoor residential lighting shall be so arranged as to not constitute a nuisance to passing traffic or adjoining residential properties. Lighting should be directed or shielded in a manner to limit glare and encroachment on neighboring lands. In some instances, the height, type of light, watt or bulb may need to be evaluated and limited to assist in meeting the general intent of the residential area and of this chapter.
Full Breakdown
150 of the Franklin County zoning code addresses light trespass under the heading Outdoor residential lighting. In all residential zoning districts, the section requires that outdoor residential lighting be so arranged as to not constitute a nuisance to passing traffic or adjoining residential properties, and that lighting be directed or shielded in a manner to limit glare and encroachment on neighboring lands. The section adds that in some instances, the height, type of light, wattage or bulb may need to be evaluated and limited to meet the general intent of the residential zoning district and the chapter.
66, this provision sets a performance standard rather than a fixed footcandle limit, distance or fixture height, leaving the Planning and Building Department to evaluate a specific complaint against the nuisance, glare and encroachment language on a case-by-case basis. 66. 150.
Violations & Fines
Installing unshielded outdoor lighting that glares onto a neighboring residential property or distracts passing traffic on the adjoining road violates Section 17.66.150. The Planning and Building Department can require the property owner to redirect, shield, lower or replace the fixture, evaluating the height, light type and wattage against the section's nuisance and glare standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there rules on outdoor lighting shining onto my neighbor's yard?
Is there a specific brightness or footcandle limit for outdoor lights?
Does this rule cover streetlights or commercial lighting too?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Franklin County
Compare Franklin County to another location·View the Washington outdoor lighting overview
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