Seminole prohibits outdoor lighting that creates glare, illuminates adjacent properties beyond reasonable thresholds, or interferes with traffic safety. Light trespass is enforced through nuisance and zoning code provisions.
Seminole's Land Development Code requires that exterior lighting be designed and aimed so that direct illumination does not extend beyond the property line in ways that cause unreasonable glare or interference. Commercial site plans typically must demonstrate maximum illuminance at property boundaries (commonly 0.5 foot-candles at residential boundaries). Residents experiencing light trespass from neighbors can file complaints with code enforcement, who may require shielding or aiming corrections. Repeat violators face escalating civil fines. Security lights with motion sensors are favored over continuous floodlighting.
First notice of violation typically has 14-30 day correction window; ignored violations can result in $100-$500 daily fines through code enforcement board.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle light trespass.
See how Seminole's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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