Franklin, TN Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Beam angle limit
- 35 degrees from vertical
- Residential lots
- Light source can't be visible
- Citation
- Zoning Ordinance § 14.2.2
- Effective
- January 13, 2026
Summary
Franklin's zoning code caps light spill: fixtures must minimize glare on neighbors, stay within a 35-degree beam angle, and can't be visible from any residential lot.
A. Exterior lighting shall: 1. Be arranged to minimize glare and reflection upon adjacent properties; 2. Be aimed or directed to preclude light projection beyond immediate objects intended to be illuminated; 3. Not distribute light onto surrounding property beyond an angle of 35 degrees from a vertical plane; and 4. Use low-wattage architectural lighting for upwardly-directed lighting intended to illuminate structures or landscape elements. 5. Be positioned, aimed, or configured so the light source is not visible from a residential lot.
B. Ornamental style light fixtures that rely on prismatic glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate outer globes as their only lamp shielding method are prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Section 14.2.2 of the 2026 Franklin Zoning Ordinance, effective January 13, 2026, is the city's core light-pollution control for every zoning district. Exterior fixtures must be arranged to minimize glare and reflection on adjacent properties, aimed so light doesn't project beyond the object it's meant to illuminate, and limited to a 35-degree angle from vertical so beams don't spray across property lines. Upward-facing architectural lighting must be low-wattage, and, the strictest piece, any light source has to be positioned so it isn't visible at all from a residential lot. Section 14.3.8.B separately steers street-light fixture choices toward options the City says reduce light pollution on residential streets.
Violations & Fines
Violating any zoning lighting standard is a misdemeanor under Section 22.5, fined per Municipal Code Title 12's general penalty clause; each day a violation continues is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Franklin limit how much light can spill onto my neighbor's yard?
Can a light fixture be visible from a residential lot next door?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Franklin
Compare Franklin to another location·View the Tennessee outdoor lighting overview
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