Fresno addresses light trespass through the Development Code and general nuisance provisions. Exterior lighting must be designed and aimed so that light does not spill onto adjacent residential properties in a manner that creates a nuisance. Commercial properties adjacent to residential zones face stricter requirements for shielding and fixture placement to prevent light intrusion into homes and yards.
The Development Code requires a photometric plan for commercial and multi-family projects showing that light levels at property boundaries adjacent to residential zones do not exceed specified thresholds. Security lighting is permitted but must use shielded fixtures aimed away from neighboring residences. Flood lights and unshielded fixtures directed toward neighboring properties are a common source of complaints. The City may require modifications to non-compliant lighting as a condition of code enforcement resolution.
Documented light trespass creating a nuisance can result in code enforcement action requiring fixture modification or removal. Failure to comply with conditions of approval for commercial lighting may result in citations.
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not regulate decorative lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round yard decorations on private property. Property maintenance standards in FMC Chapt...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not specifically regulate residential inflatable holiday displays. There is no size cap, lighting curfew, or fan-noise limit specific to inflatab...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not have a specific ordinance regulating residential holiday light displays. Display dates, brightness, and decorative content are not regulated ...
Fresno, CA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Fresno require building, electrical, plumbing, and gas permits under FMC Chapter 11 (Building Regulations), which adopts the Cal...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not have a specific ordinance regulating backyard smokers or wood-fired ovens by time of day. Use is governed by the general nuisance provisions ...
Fresno, CA
Fresno enforces the California Fire Code (CFC) as adopted in FMC Chapter 10, Article 5 (Fire Prevention). Under CFC §308.1.4 (the California amended version ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fresno County.
See how other cities in Fresno County handle light trespass.
See how Fresno's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.