Madison, WI Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Madison General Ordinances 10.085(7) addresses light trespass as a form of nuisance distinct from the fixture standards in subsections (1)-(6). Light from any property (including single-family residential otherwise exempt from fixture rules) that creates illuminance exceeding 0.3 footcandles measured at the adjacent residential property line at 5 feet above grade is prohibited. Security floodlights aimed across property lines, improperly aimed landscape lighting, and bright sign illumination are common complaint sources. Neighbors file complaints with Building Inspection, which measures with a calibrated light meter at night. Abatement orders require aiming adjustment, shielding, or replacement within a stated compliance period (typically 30 days). Unresolved cases can escalate to municipal court with forfeitures $50-$500 per violation and injunctive orders. Civil nuisance claims remain available in Dane County Circuit Court. The ordinance does not apply to street lights, emergency lighting, or temporary construction lighting.