Travis County has no specific light trespass ordinance for unincorporated areas. Nuisance light claims between neighbors proceed under Texas common-law nuisance doctrine. Subdivisions with dark-sky CCRs provide civil enforcement. City of Austin LDC 25-6 applies within city limits but not in unincorporated county.
To prove light nuisance under Texas law, plaintiff must show substantial and unreasonable interference with use and enjoyment of property. Measurement at property line above 0.5 foot-candles is commonly accepted threshold. Hotel and commercial exterior lighting near residential areas receives HOA scrutiny. Security lighting with motion activation is generally protected as reasonable.
Civil nuisance claim: damages plus injunction to shield or redirect lights. No criminal penalty. HOA enforcement: $50-500 per violation typical.
Travis County, TX
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Travis County, TX
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Travis County, TX
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Travis County, TX
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See how Travis County's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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