Light trespass onto neighboring property in Sunnyvale is a nuisance under SMC Title 9 and Title 19. Offenders can be required to shield or redirect fixtures.
Sunnyvale treats excessive spill light that crosses a property line as a public and private nuisance under the general nuisance provisions of SMC Title 9 and the lighting performance standards of Title 19. Typical violations involve unshielded barn lights, flood lights aimed horizontally, or overly bright security lighting pointed at neighbor windows. The city may require shields, re-aiming, wattage reduction, or timers. Title 24 Part 6 BUG ratings help determine whether new fixtures meet acceptable glare limits. Private citizens can also pursue civil nuisance claims. Dusk-to-dawn security lighting is generally allowed but must be shielded to prevent trespass onto habitable rooms of adjacent homes. Motion-activated fixtures are encouraged as a best practice.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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