Light Nuisance

Is light pollution the same as light nuisance?

What is light nuisance?

Artificial light is essential in our modern society, however, poorly designed, directed and maintained lighting can cause problems. Artificial light nuisance is a source of light which interferes with a person's use of their property or is prejudicial to their health.

This does not include light emitted from premises used for transport purposes, or other premises where high levels of light are required for safety or security reasons, i.e.

Airports
Public service vehicle operating centres
Harbours
Goods vehicle operating centres
Railway premises
Lighthouses
Tramway premises
Prisons
Bus stations and associated facilities
Premises occupied for Defence purposes

Is light pollution the same as light nuisance?

Light pollution is any form of artificial light which shines outside the area it needs to illuminate including light which is directed into the night sky creating a sky glow. Although light pollution may affect the beauty of the night sky and our view of the stars, it is not a light nuisance unless it interferes with a person's use of their property or is prejudicial to their health.

How to avoid causing a light nuisance

Do not fit unnecessary lights.
Do not use excessively bright lights. A 150 watt tungsten halogen lamp is adequate. High power (300-500 watt) bulbs are too powerful for domestic security lighting
Do not leave lights on when they are not needed. Consider controlling lights with passive infra-red detectors, ensuring that they are correctly aligned and installed. For a porch light that is going to be left on all night, a 9 watt compact fluorescent lamp is normally adequate.
Speak to your neighbours to check your lights are not causing a problem.

What can I do about light nuisance?

Try to approach your neighbour to discuss the problem, prehaps with the aid of a mediation service. Suggest possible solutions to the problem such as:

re-angle or partially shade the light
fit a passive infra red sensor
use a lower power bulb

Remember that sometimes neighbours are unaware they are causing a problem and most will be glad to do what they can. If the friendly approach doesn't work, contact us to see how we can help.