North Miami, FL Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

North Miami addresses light trespass through its Code of Ordinances and site plan review requirements. Light trespass occurs when artificial light from one property falls onto an adjacent property or public right-of-way at levels that cause annoyance or interference with the reasonable use and enjoyment of property. Commercial and multi-family development projects must submit photometric lighting plans as part of site plan review demonstrating that lighting levels at property lines do not exceed acceptable thresholds. Fixtures must be full-cutoff or shielded to prevent direct glare beyond the property boundary. Parking lot and security lighting must be designed to contain illumination within the site boundaries. Building-mounted floodlights and wall packs must be directed downward with appropriate shielding. For residential properties, light trespass complaints are addressed through the Code Enforcement process as nuisance violations. Security lights, motion-activated floodlights, and decorative fixtures that direct excessive illumination onto neighboring properties may be cited. The city may require installation of shields, adjustment of fixture aim, or replacement with compliant fixtures. North Miami's sea turtle lighting regulations provide additional light trespass controls for coastal properties, requiring that no artificial light be visible from nesting beach areas during nesting season.