Somerville zoning limits light trespass at residential property lines to 0.1 foot-candles. Complaints are handled by ISD zoning enforcement.
Light trespass (light crossing from one property onto another) is regulated under the Somerville Zoning Ordinance outdoor lighting article, which caps illuminance at a residential property line at roughly 0.1 foot-candles measured vertically, and 0.5 foot-candles at a commercial property line. All outdoor fixtures must be fully shielded so the lamp is not visible from adjacent property, and floodlights must be aimed at least 30 degrees below horizontal. When a neighbor files a complaint via Somerville 311, ISD zoning officers inspect with a light meter at night and issue a correction order requiring reaiming, shielding, or fixture replacement. Persistent violations carry fines up to $300 per day under the zoning enforcement schedule. Massachusetts common law nuisance may also support a civil suit in extreme cases.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
See how other cities in Middlesex County handle light trespass.
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