Unincorporated Orange County addresses light trespass through general nuisance provisions under OCCO Title 3 and project-specific conditions of approval under the Zoning Code. While there is no standalone light trespass ordinance, excessive artificial lighting that spills onto neighboring residential properties can be addressed as a nuisance through code enforcement.
Orange County does not have a dedicated light trespass ordinance with specific foot-candle limits at property lines, unlike some neighboring jurisdictions (Los Angeles LAMC §93.0117 sets 2 foot-candles at residential property lines). However, light trespass in unincorporated areas is addressed through multiple mechanisms: OCCO Title 3 general nuisance provisions allow enforcement against lighting that unreasonably disturbs neighbors; the Zoning Code requires new development to include shielded, downward-directed lighting through conditions of approval to minimize glare and spillage; and California Building Code Title 24 Part 6 outdoor lighting requirements limit excessive illumination. Community-specific plans for areas like Coto de Caza and the canyon communities may include more detailed lighting standards. Residents experiencing light trespass from neighboring properties can file complaints through the Neighborhood Preservation program, which will investigate and work toward resolution.
Light trespass complaints are handled through the Neighborhood Preservation program as nuisance violations under OCCO Title 3. Enforcement follows the progressive approach: courtesy notice, notice of violation, civil citation. Non-compliance with project conditions of approval regarding lighting triggers separate code enforcement action.
Orange County, CA
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