Light trespass limited to 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines under the Zoning Ordinance. Complaints handled through MC311 and DPS code enforcement.
Under Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Chapter 59, Division 6.4, outdoor lighting from any property must not produce illumination exceeding 0.5 foot-candles measured at the nearest residential property line. Commercial and institutional properties adjacent to residential zones must use shielded fixtures and orient them away from residences. Glare from unshielded lights, floodlights aimed at neighboring properties, or overly bright security lighting are common sources of complaints. The DPS code enforcement division investigates light trespass complaints, which can be filed through MC311. Remedies include requiring the offending property to install shielding, redirect fixtures, reduce wattage, or add timers. The county can issue violation notices requiring correction within 30 days. Persistent offenders face escalating fines. New commercial developments must submit photometric plans during site plan review showing compliance at all adjacent property lines.
Violation notice with 30-day correction period. Fines start at $100 per violation after the correction period expires. Escalating penalties for repeat offenders.
Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County Code §31-14 prohibits parking heavy commercial vehicles (over 10,000 lbs, 21+ ft, 8+ ft high) on public residential roadways. One light com...
Montgomery County, MD
Abandoned vehicles in Montgomery County are subject to state and county law. MD Transportation Code §25-201+ defines abandonment; county can tag and tow vehi...
Montgomery County, MD
Maryland has no shared fence cost statute. Each owner responsible for their own fence. Spite fence provision under MD RP Art. §14-120.
Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences in residential zones under Ch 59. HOAs commonly restrict chain-link fencing. Approve...
Montgomery County, MD
Maryland’s Tracey’s Law (2014) treats all dog breeds equally under negligence standard. No breed-specific strict liability. Dangerous dogs behavior-based.
Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County requires dogs on leash in public. Off-leash in designated parks only. Rabies vaccination required statewide. MD Criminal Law §10-619 covers...
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