Phoenix addresses light trespass through its outdoor lighting ordinance (§23-100) and general nuisance provisions. Residents can request streetlight shielding or redirection through the city at no cost. The Planning Department enforces lighting ordinances against private property light trespass.
Phoenix codes prohibit light trespass, defined as artificial light that illuminates areas beyond the property where the fixture is installed. Residential properties typically must keep light levels below 0.5 to 1.0 foot-candles at the property line. Security lights must be aimed and shielded to illuminate only the owner's property. Floodlights aimed at neighboring homes are prohibited. String lights and decorative lighting must not create glare for neighbors or passing traffic. Holiday lighting may have temporary exemptions. Commercial properties face stricter standards with measured lumen limits at property boundaries.
Light trespass complaint: warning and 30-day correction period. Non-compliance: fines $100 to $300 per violation. Repeated complaints: escalating fines. Commercial violations: up to $1,000.
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix follows the 2018 Phoenix Building Construction Code Chapter 9 (IBC/IRC) and Ordinance G-5898 (effective April 18, 2014). Smoke alarms are required in...
Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, lighting hours, and blower noise are governed by HOA CC&Rs. PCC Secti...
Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs. Trade permits filed through Planning...
Phoenix, AZ
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle light trespass.
See how Phoenix's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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