Stratford, CT Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)

Light trespass is regulated in Section 6.7.5 of the Stratford Zoning Regulations. Paragraph A(1) says outdoor lighting shall not be located or directed in such a way as to produce glare or discomfort on public streets or neighboring properties. It also sets a measurable test: direct light from the luminaire shall not be visible at any point along the property line at a height of greater than five feet. Section 6.7.4 defines light trespass as light that strays from the intended purpose and becomes an annoyance, a nuisance, or a deterrent to visual performance, and glare as the visual discomfort from insufficiently shielded light sources shining horizontally in the field of view.

Section 6.7.5(C) adds timing controls. All outdoor lighting must be controlled with a timer or motion sensor that turns lights off from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am, turns lights off after 15 minutes of inactivity, or reduces the power output by 75% after 15 minutes of no detected activity. Fixtures necessary for security purposes must be activated by motion-sensor devices that turn the light off after 15 minutes of no activity.

Other sections reach specific situations. Commercial parking lit under a special permit in an RS or RM District must be arranged or shaded under Section 6.8.9(3) so the source of light is not visible from any residence window off the lot and within 75 feet of the light source. Section 6.11.11(8) requires signs to be lit only by internal illumination or shielded light directed at the sign, without causing glare for motorists, pedestrians, or neighboring premises.

Section 6.7.2 limits these standards to the installation or replacement of fixtures at commercial, industrial, and residential properties with more than three units. Holiday lighting from November through January is exempt under Section 6.7.3.