Pittsburgh addresses light trespass through its nuisance regulations and zoning code. Commercial and industrial lighting must be directed to minimize spillover onto neighboring residential properties. Complaints about excessive lighting may be filed with the city's code enforcement program.
Pittsburgh 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.
Pittsburgh, PA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Allegheny County.
See how other cities in Allegheny County handle light trespass.
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