Jacksonville does not have a specific light trespass ordinance for residential areas. Light spillover between properties may be addressed through the general nuisance provisions of Ch. 518 (Property Safety and Maintenance) or as part of zoning site plan review for commercial projects under Ch. 656. Airport overlay zones (Ch. 656, Part 10) have specific lighting regulations for OLF Whitehouse to prevent interference with military flight operations.
Light trespass regulations in Jacksonville protect residents from intrusive lighting from neighboring properties and commercial uses. Light trespass occurs when outdoor illumination crosses property boundaries at levels exceeding 0.5 foot-candles (residential) or 1.0 foot-candles (commercial-to-residential). Common violations include unshielded security floodlights, improperly aimed motion-sensor lights, and commercial sign illumination spilling into residential areas. Property owners receiving light trespass complaints must redirect or shield offending fixtures within 30 days. New construction must submit lighting plans demonstrating compliance. Enforcement relies on complaint-driven investigation with code enforcement officers using light meters to document violations. Chronic light trespass may constitute a private nuisance actionable in court.
First complaint: 30-day correction notice. Failure to comply: $75–$250 fine per occurrence. Chronic violations: $250–$500 per occurrence and potential court injunction. Commercial violators face accelerated enforcement.
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