Light pollution
Light pollution is probably best described as artificial light that is allowed to illuminate or pollute areas not intended to be lit.
Artificial light is essential in our modern society.
It has many uses including illumination of streets, roads and hazardous areas, security lighting, to increase the hours of usage for outdoor sports and recreation facilities and to enhance the appearance of buildings at night.
The increased use of lighting, however, can cause problems. Light in the wrong place at the wrong time can be intrusive.
If a neighbour or business has installed lighting that is causing you problems when in use, such as excessively bright illumination of your living room or bedroom for example, we may be able to help.
While street lighting is not specifically exempt by 'light nuisance' law, it is unlikely to constitute an artificial light nuisance because it is not usually found on premises or property as defined in the legislation.
What can you do
Approach your neighbour and explain the problem in a friendly way often resolves the situation. Most neighbours will be much more considerate in the future when they realise they are causing a problem for their neighbours. If the problem continues, keep a note of the dates and times of when the problem is happening and contact us.
What can we do
Initially we will advise your neighbour of the problem, with a request that they look into it, and to make any necessary adjustments to prevent the problem reoccurring.
If we agree there is light nuisance, then a Notice will be served on the neighbour requiring action to be taken to fix the problem within a specified time scale. If this action is not taken, then we can prosecute. The vast majority of problems of this type are, however, resolved informally.
Leaflets
How to avoid and deal with light nuisance
Legislation
Environmental Protection Act 1990