Plano development standards require that outdoor lighting not produce excessive glare or light spillover onto adjacent properties. Commercial properties adjacent to residential zones must control light at property boundaries. Existing lighting that constitutes a nuisance may be addressed through the city's general nuisance provisions and code enforcement.
Light trespass regulations in Plano protect residents from intrusive lighting from neighboring properties and commercial uses. Light trespass occurs when outdoor illumination crosses property boundaries at levels exceeding 0.5 foot-candles (residential) or 1.0 foot-candles (commercial-to-residential). Common violations include unshielded security floodlights, improperly aimed motion-sensor lights, and commercial sign illumination spilling into residential areas. Property owners receiving light trespass complaints must redirect or shield offending fixtures within 30 days. New construction must submit lighting plans demonstrating compliance. Enforcement relies on complaint-driven investigation with code enforcement officers using light meters to document violations. Chronic light trespass may constitute a private nuisance actionable in court.
First complaint: 30-day correction notice. Failure to comply: $75–$250 fine per occurrence. Chronic violations: $250–$500 per occurrence and potential court injunction. Commercial violators face accelerated enforcement.
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