Light and glare

Light and glare from private property 

Council does not investigate complaints relating to light and glare on private properties.

If light and glare is an issue, this is considered civil in nature and you should try to find a resolution with the owner of the property from where the light and glare is coming from.

If you cannot resolve the issue independently, you should start a discussion with your nearest Community Justice Centre

Light and glare from advertising signage and venues 

If your enquiry is about light and glare coming from advertising signs, entertainment venues and events, properties or other commercially based activity again you should try to find a solution directly with the affected parties before seeking assistance from Council.

Reducing light and glare

Tips to reduce light and glare emissions include:

• Install timer or sensor lights and ensure lights are turned off when not required for safety or security reasons or when enhancing a night-time scene.
• When buying external lights, consider their brightness. The lower the brightness, the less likely they will impact on neighbours. Warm white, lower lumen, light-emitting diode (LED) light globes should have less impact on neighbours.
• Locate the light source as far as possible from neighbours and away from sensitive areas (e.g. bedroom windows and living areas).
• Avoid placing the light near a light reflective surface and use existing features to hide the light source from view.
• Wherever possible, direct light downwards, not upwards, to illuminate the target area. If there is no alternative to up-lighting, using shields will help keep spill light to a minimum.
• Use specifically designed lighting equipment that, once installed, minimises the spread of light near to, or above the horizontal.
• Don't over-light. Less is more for your neighbours and your electricity bill.
• Ensure that the main beam angle of all lights directed towards any sensitive place is kept below 70 degrees. You can also use light shields to help minimise glare and the impact on neighbouring properties.