Light trespass from one property onto another is addressed under San Francisco's nuisance provisions and Planning Code lighting requirements. New construction and renovations must direct outdoor lighting downward and away from adjacent properties.
The SF Planning Code requires exterior lighting to be designed to avoid spillover onto neighboring properties. Residents experiencing light trespass from commercial or residential neighbors can file complaints through SF311 or the Planning Department. The Police Code nuisance provisions may apply to persistent, excessive light intrusion. CALGreen standards set maximum illumination levels at property boundaries based on lighting zone classification.
Light trespass complaints may be addressed through code enforcement or nuisance abatement. The Planning Department may require lighting modifications during project review or in response to complaints.
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See how San Francisco's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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