Richmond, CA Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass (2026)

Light glare and spillover are regulated under Richmond's zoning code and nuisance ordinances. The core standard is that exterior lighting must not cause direct glare visible from neighboring properties or cause light to trespass at levels creating a nuisance. Typical numerical standards limit illumination at residential property lines to 0.5 foot-candles measured at ground level, and at commercial property lines to 1.0 foot-candles. Fixtures must be aimed and shielded so that the light source (lamp or LED) is not directly visible from neighboring windows or across property lines. Sports field lighting, commercial signs, and security floodlights face particular scrutiny. Billboards and electronic signs have additional brightness limits and cannot flash or change rapidly in residential-adjacent areas. Complaints are handled by the Richmond Code Enforcement division. Remedies include shielding, aiming adjustment, timers, and reduction of wattage or lumens. Repeated violations can result in administrative citations starting at $100 and escalating. Landscape lighting is generally less regulated but should still be shielded and aimed appropriately.