Las Cruces's Outdoor Lighting Ordinance bars light trespass, defined as light falling beyond the property it is meant to illuminate. Fixtures must be shielded and aimed away from neighbors, and commercial luminaires must meet backlight and glare (BUG) limits.
Chapter 39 of the Las Cruces Municipal Code targets light trespass, defined as light that falls beyond the property it is intended to illuminate. Residential security and directional fixtures must be aimed at least 65 degrees below horizontal, shielded to prevent glare and trespass beyond the property boundary, and pointed away from adjacent properties (Sec. 39-9). Commercial luminaires must meet maximum backlight, uplight, and glare (BUG) ratings by lighting zone under Section 39-11. The ordinance does not set a numeric property-line foot-candle cap; compliance is judged by shielding, aiming, and BUG ratings. Trespass complaints go to city code enforcement.
Light trespass is enforced as a petty misdemeanor under Section 39-19, with fines of $50 to $300 per violation and each 24-hour period a separate offense. Offending fixtures are also treated as nuisances.
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