St. Louis addresses light trespass through general nuisance provisions. Lighting directed onto neighboring property in a manner that unreasonably interferes with use and enjoyment can be abated through Citizens Service Bureau complaints.
Revised Code Chapter 11 (Public Nuisance) provides the primary remedy for light trespass between properties. The standard is reasonableness: ordinary porch and security lighting is permitted, but floodlights aimed into a neighbor's bedroom window or high-intensity commercial lighting spilling onto residential property can constitute a nuisance. Title XXVI Zoning Code site plan review for commercial projects limits foot-candles at property lines (commonly 0.5 fc residential-adjacent, 1.0 fc commercial-adjacent). Complaints filed with Citizens Service Bureau trigger Building Division or Health Department review. Remedies include fixture shielding, aiming adjustments, timers, or removal. Private civil nuisance suits also available in circuit court.
Nuisance declaration: 10-30 day cure period. Continued violation: $100-$500 per day. Civil suits may seek injunction and damages.
St. Louis, MO
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