Showing ordinances that apply to Wheaton, MD
Wheaton is an unincorporated community (population 52,150) in Montgomery County, Maryland. Because Wheaton is not an incorporated city, it does not have its own municipal code. Instead, Montgomery County ordinances apply directly to properties here. The light trespass rules below are the ones that govern your area.
Light trespass limited to 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines under the Zoning Ordinance. Complaints handled through MC311 and DPS code enforcement.
Under Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Chapter 59, Division 6.4, outdoor lighting from any property must not produce illumination exceeding 0.5 foot-candles measured at the nearest residential property line. Commercial and institutional properties adjacent to residential zones must use shielded fixtures and orient them away from residences. Glare from unshielded lights, floodlights aimed at neighboring properties, or overly bright security lighting are common sources of complaints. The DPS code enforcement division investigates light trespass complaints, which can be filed through MC311. Remedies include requiring the offending property to install shielding, redirect fixtures, reduce wattage, or add timers. The county can issue violation notices requiring correction within 30 days. Persistent offenders face escalating fines. New commercial developments must submit photometric plans during site plan review showing compliance at all adjacent property lines.
Violation notice with 30-day correction period. Fines start at $100 per violation after the correction period expires. Escalating penalties for repeat offenders.
See how Wheaton's light trespass rules stack up against other locations.
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