Yuma, AZ Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass & Shielding (2026)
Key Facts
- Light trespass
- Prohibited under § 154-18.02(R)
- Definition
- Light source visible from another property
- Pole height near residential
- 12 ft within 25 ft of residence
- Upward lighting angle limit
- 45 degrees from horizontal
- Commercial permit requirement
- Photometric survey proving no trespass
Summary
Yuma defines light trespass as artificial light from a fixture on one property that is directed so the light source itself is visible from another property, and it prohibits that condition outright except for fixtures the code specifically exempts. Light poles within 25 feet of a residential use are also capped at 12 feet, and commercial permits must prove no trespass onto neighbors. City Code § 154-18.02 governs.
LIGHT TRESPASS. A condition in which artificial light emitted from a luminaire on one property, not inclusive of light incidentally scattered or reflected from adjacent surfaces, is directed in such a manner that the light source is visible from any other property. ... (R) Light trespass is prohibited, except for fixtures exempted from this chapter or from shielding requirements in this section.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through May 20, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Yuma's outdoor lighting chapter defines light trespass precisely and then bans it. 02(A), light trespass is a condition in which artificial light emitted from a luminaire on one property, not inclusive of light incidentally scattered or reflected from adjacent surfaces, is directed in such a manner that the light source is visible from any other property. 03(B)-(C). 02(C). 04(A)(3). 02(O), (P).
Violations & Fines
A property owner whose fixture casts a visible light source onto a neighboring parcel is in violation of § 154-18.02(R) and subject to the chapter's general penalty, § 154-999: a class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to a $1,000 fine, up to ten days in jail, or both, with continuing daily violations charged as separate offenses until the fixture is shielded or removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as light trespass under Yuma's code?
How tall can a light pole be near my house?
Do commercial projects have to prove they won't trespass light onto neighbors?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yuma
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