Outdoor lighting is important for safety and visibility but poorly positioned or overly bright lighting can affect the comfort, privacy, and wellbeing of nearby residents. This issue often called light spill, or intrusive lighting can disrupt sleep and reduce enjoyment of outdoor spaces, particularly during evening or night hours.
The City encourages a respectful, step-by-step approach to resolving lighting concerns.
Best practice guidelines for outdoor lighting
Residents and business operators can help reduce light pollution and maintain positive neighbourhood relationships by following these guidelines:
- Use timers or motion sensors so lights operate only when needed.
- Select lighting with appropriate brightness—choose lower lumen LED bulbs and warm white colours to reduce glare.
- Position lights thoughtfully, avoiding direct illumination of neighbouring windows.
- Direct lighting downward for driveways, paths, and landscaping. Avoid up-lighting.
- Install shielding accessories such as hoods or visors to prevent light spill.
- Maintain a low beam angle (ideally below 70 degrees) to reduce glare.
- Avoid over-lighting or flood lighting — as more light does not always mean better security and can increase energy costs unnecessarily.
When the City will not investigate
The City is not the appropriate authority for:
- Lighting from private residential dwellings
- Civil disputes between neighbours
- One-off or short-term lighting incidents unless they breach development or environmental law
If your concern falls into these categories, other options include:
- Private mediation services
- NSW Police for urgent or anti-social behaviour
- Local Courts for civil disputes
When and how the City can help
The City may investigate lighting complaints in accordance with its Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement Policy. A formal investigation may be considered when:
- The lighting is part of a development consent and subject to conditions.
- There is a breach of approved conditions (for example, operating outside permitted hours or incorrect light direction).
Where appropriate, the City will first seek voluntary compliance through education and communication.
For lighting associated with commercial or industrial properties, or installed as part of an approved development consent, you can speak with a Duty Officer for advice on planning and building compliance.
- Phone: (02) 6648 4000 (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00am – 1:00pm)
- In person: Duty Officer available at the Customer Service Desk (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00am – 1:00pm)