Topeka, KS Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- TMC § 18.240.020(b)(6)
- Limit
- 3 foot-candles at lot line
- Applies to
- Off-street parking lighting
- Direction rule
- Away from homes, streets
Summary
Topeka caps off-street parking lot lighting at three foot-candles measured at the property line and requires fixtures to point away from homes and streets, so glare can't legally cross onto a neighbor's land.
Any lighting used to illuminate off-street parking facilities shall be directed away from residential properties and public streets in such a way as not to create a nuisance. However, in no case shall such lighting exceed three foot-candles measured at the lot line.
(7) Drainage. All stormwater runoff shall be collected, transported and disposed of in a manner as approved by the City Engineer.
(8) Accessible Parking. Where a use is required to provide accessibility for persons with disabilities, the required parking spaces shall be located and designed in accordance with standards as set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
(9) Bicycle Parking. New off-street parking constructed after June 1, 2014, shall include additional parking for bicycles. The additional parking area shall be equivalent to five percent of the number of vehicular parking spaces required in TMC 18.240.030, with a minimum of two. Parking facilities that are expanded after June 1, 2014, shall include additional parking for bicycles in the expanded area that is equal to five percent of the number of vehicular parking spaces required in TMC 18.240.030 in the expanded area, with a minimum of two.
(10) Modification of Parking Requirements.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 20671, passed July 14, 2026).
Full Breakdown
TMC § 18.240.020(b)(6) sets Topeka's clearest light-trespass rule: any lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking facility must be directed away from residential properties and public streets so it doesn't create a nuisance, and it cannot exceed three foot-candles measured at the lot line. The limit applies citywide to the parking lots required under Chapter 18.240 for commercial, multi-family, and institutional uses. Because the cap is measured at the boundary rather than at the fixture, a property owner can install bright lighting on-site as long as the light level actually falls to three foot-candles or less by the time it reaches the adjoining lot.
Violations & Fines
A parking lot lighting design exceeding three foot-candles at the lot line, or aimed at a neighboring residence, fails site plan or building permit review and can be ordered corrected by the City.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light can spill onto my property from a neighboring parking lot in Topeka?
Does this foot-candle limit cover house-to-house lighting, like a neighbor's floodlight?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Topeka
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