Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Maricopa County, AZ Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: https://www.maricopa.gov/2271/Ordinances-Regulations-and-Codes →

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Key Facts

Ordinance: MCZO Section 812
Standard: Lighting must not spill onto adjacent properties
Shielding: Required for all outdoor fixtures
Complaints: Code Compliance investigates

City-specific rules exist: Chandler, Phoenix, Glendale, Gilbert, Mesa, Surprise, Goodyear, Tempe, Peoria, and Scottsdale have their own light trespass rules that differ from Maricopa County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Maricopa County's Dark Sky Ordinance (MCZO Section 812) addresses light trespass as part of its outdoor lighting regulations. Outdoor lighting must be directed and shielded to prevent light from spilling onto adjacent properties. The county's noise ordinance (P-23) also references the 500-foot measurement for nuisance impacts, and similar proximity standards apply to lighting complaints.

Full Breakdown

Maricopa County's Dark Sky Ordinance (MCZO Section 812) requires outdoor lighting to be directed and shielded to prevent light from spilling onto adjacent properties or into the night sky. Light trespass occurs when artificial light from one property illuminates a neighboring property beyond acceptable levels. All exterior luminaires must use full cutoff fixtures that emit no light above the horizontal plane. Property owners who believe a neighbor's outdoor lighting causes unreasonable light trespass may file a complaint with Maricopa County Code Compliance at (602) 506-3301. The county may require the offending property to modify, reposition, or shield fixtures to achieve compliance. Repeated violations may result in code compliance enforcement action including fines.

Violations & Fines

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I complain about a neighbor's lights shining onto my property in Maricopa County?

Yes. The Maricopa County Outdoor Lighting Code prohibits light trespass, defined as artificial light that shines beyond property boundaries onto adjacent residential property. You can file a complaint with the Maricopa County Code Compliance Division at (602) 506-3301 for investigation and enforcement.

What are the light trespass limits in unincorporated Maricopa County?

The county outdoor lighting code limits light levels at property boundaries. Residential zones have stricter limits than commercial zones. Offending property owners receive a notice of violation and must modify or shield their lighting fixtures to reduce light trespass within the specified compliance period.

Are security lights exempt from light trespass rules in Maricopa County?

Security lights are not exempt from the outdoor lighting code. They must be shielded, full-cutoff fixtures aimed downward and must not produce glare or light trespass onto neighboring properties. Motion-activated security lights are encouraged as they reduce continuous light output while still providing safety illumination.

How does Maricopa County compare?

See how Maricopa County's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.

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Maricopa County, AZ Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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