Mission, TX Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing rule
- Cut-off fixtures required near residential zones
- Property-line cap
- 0.2 footcandle max near residential zoning
- Decorative exception
- 1,500 lumens max, 15-ft height
- Shielded spotlights
- Screened by landscaping, walls, or cut-off shielding
- Enforcement
- City can order fixture removal or modification
Summary
Mission requires cut-off fixtures on nonresidential lighting so light isn't visible at the property line, capping illumination near residential zones at two-tenths footcandle and requiring shielded spotlights citywide.
All fixtures shall be "cut-off" fixtures that limit lighting that is visible or measurable at the property line. ... If abutting or nearby properties are zoned for residential use, cut-off fixtures shall be used so that the light source cannot be seen from residential property, except as provided in subsection a. above. ... The maximum illumination at a property line abutting or across the street from residential zoning shall not exceed two-tenths footcandles.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 31).
Full Breakdown
Mission's zoning code treats security and area lighting on nonresidential property as a public-safety issue, not just aesthetics. Sec. 98-15(l) requires all exterior fixtures to be cut-off type so the light source itself can't be seen or measured at the property line; decorative no-cut-off fixtures are allowed only if capped at 1,500 lumens and 15 feet high. Near residential zoning, illumination at the property line is capped at two-tenths footcandle, and shielded security spotlights must be screened with landscaping, walls, berms, or cut-off shielding so the source isn't visible off-site. The city can order noncompliant fixtures modified or removed as a public hazard or nuisance.
Violations & Fines
The city can order modification, removal, or limited operation of any lighting fixture found to be a public hazard or nuisance, after notice to the property owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Mission require security lights to be shielded?
How close to residential property can bright security lighting be?
What happens if a security light is too bright or glaring?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mission
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Mission to another location·View the Texas outdoor lighting overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Light Trespass & Shielding in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Hidalgo County handle light trespass & shielding.