Sacramento addresses light trespass through its nuisance regulations and zoning standards. Outdoor lighting that unreasonably interferes with the use and enjoyment of neighboring properties may be considered a nuisance under City Code. Commercial and multi-family development must design lighting to prevent spillover onto residential properties. Residents can report excessive light trespass through the City's 311 complaint system.
The City's zoning code requires commercial developments adjacent to residential zones to include light shielding measures to prevent direct glare and light spillover. Site plan reviews evaluate lighting placement and fixture types for compatibility with surrounding land uses. For residential disputes, Code Compliance may mediate light trespass complaints and can require corrective action if lighting constitutes a public or private nuisance. Courts may also provide relief under California Civil Code nuisance provisions.
Light trespass complaints may result in code compliance notices requiring corrective action such as redirecting or shielding fixtures. Persistent nuisance lighting may lead to administrative citations and civil court action by affected neighbors.
Sacramento, CA
The City of Sacramento does not have a stand-alone movable tiny house (THOW) ordinance like neighboring West Sacramento's Ordinance 24-9. Tiny homes are only...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento regulates carports under City Code Chapter 17.624 (Residential Accessory Structure and Use Regulations). Attached carports are governed by section...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento treats above-ground pools the same as in-ground pools when water exceeds 18 inches deep. A building permit, manufacturer's specs, retractable ladd...
Sacramento, CA
Per Sacramento City Code 9.16.090, all pools and spas need a 60-inch barrier with a self-latching gate. New or remodeled pools at single-family homes must ha...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento sheds under 120 sq ft don't need a building permit (Sac. City Code §15.20). Max 18 ft overall height, 10 ft wall height, min 4 ft from main house,...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento enforces both state law (Cal. Health & Safety Code §§115920-115929) and Sacramento City Code 15.64.070, which require every swimming pool or spa t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle light trespass.
See how Sacramento's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.