Light Nuisance

Many light nuisance problems can be dealt with by having a friendly word with your neighbour.

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.

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 also 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 nine watt compact fluorescent lamp is normally adequate.
• Speak to your neighbours to check your lights are not causing a problem.

Further advice on installing domestic security lighting  (242.33 KB) issued by the Institute of Lighting Engineers.

What can I do about light nuisance?

Try to approach your neighbour for a chat about the problem. Try to keep things light-hearted and friendly and explain how the light is affecting you. Politely suggest possible solutions to the problem:

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

You may find it difficult to speak to your neighbour, but research has shown that a direct approach has the best chance of success. 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.

Useful factsheets

Downloadable factsheets on light nuisance:

• Light pollultion nuisance - guidance notes  (113.67 KB)
• Installing domestic security lighting - guidance notes  (242.33 KB) - issued by the Institute of Lighting Engineers.

What you can expect from us

We aim to respond to your enquiry within 2 working days

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For more information contact:

Environmental Protection, Environmental Services,
Wychavon District Council, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, Worcs. WR10 1PT

Telephone: 01386 565015 - between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday
Fax: 01386 561826
Email: environmental.health@wychavon.gov.uk