Queen Creek, AZ Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Queen Creek's outdoor-lighting standards in the Zoning Ordinance are written specifically to prevent light trespass onto adjacent properties. The ordinance requires that all lighting sources be down-lighting and fully shielded to prevent direct light trespass onto any adjacent property. The definition of "fully shielded" makes the trespass goal explicit: fixtures must be shielded so that light rays emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp or indirectly from the fixture, are projected below a horizontal plane running through the lowest point on the fixture where light is emitted, so as to prevent any light trespass from extending beyond the subject property boundaries and onto any abutting properties. In practice this means floodlights, security lights, landscape lights and similar fixtures must be aimed and shielded so the light stays on the owner's own parcel rather than spilling into a neighbor's yard or windows. The Town's stated purposes for these standards include minimizing light pollution, preventing direct light-trespass, reducing glare, and conserving energy while still allowing for night and security lighting. Residents experiencing light spill from a neighbor's fixtures can raise the issue with Code Compliance, and applicants for new development confirm lighting compliance with Planning Staff (480-358-3092).