Washoe County, NV Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Spillover onto neighbors
- Prohibited
- Reflected glare
- Must be avoided
- Res. abuts non-res.
- Interior light controlled at night
- Conflict rule
- More restrictive controls
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county
Summary
Outdoor lighting must not spill onto adjoining properties, and reflected glare on nearby buildings, streets, and pedestrian areas must be avoided. Where residential abuts non-residential, interior lighting must be controlled at night.
Glare. Reflected glare on nearby buildings, streets or pedestrian areas shall be avoided by incorporating overhangs and awnings, using non-reflective building materials for exterior walls and roof surfaces, controlling angles of reflection, and placing landscaping and screening in appropriate locations.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 20 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Washoe County's Light and Glare standard (WCC 110.414.21) directly addresses light trespass. Subsection (a) requires all light sources to prevent spillover lighting onto adjoining properties and to reflect away from them. Subsection (c) requires reflected glare on nearby buildings, streets, or pedestrian areas to be avoided by using overhangs and awnings, non-reflective exterior materials, controlled angles of reflection, and landscaping/screening. Subsection (d) requires that where residential uses abut non-residential uses, the non-residential interior lighting be controlled at night through timers, window blinds, or other means. Where another Development Code provision conflicts, the more restrictive controls (Sec. 110.414.21(e)). These standards apply in unincorporated county areas; cities set their own.
Violations & Fines
Enforced under Article 910; glare or light-trespass onto neighboring property may be cited as a violation requiring shielding, redirection, or timed controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
My neighbor's light shines into my yard. Is that allowed?
How is glare controlled?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Washoe County
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