What to do if affected by neighbour's lights

As with other nuisance problems, if you are affected by light nuisance it is advisable to approach the owner of the light in the first instance. There may be a straightforward solution through minor adjustments to the lighting system that will easily resolve the problem. Often the owner of the lights may not be aware that their system is giving rise to a problem. There are a number of suggestions that can be made such as:

• Re-angling or partial shading of the light

• Fitting of a passive infra red sensor

• Using a lower power bulb

It may help also if you are able to demonstrate how you are being affected on your side of the fence.

Curtains

It is sometimes suggested that persons affected should use curtains or blinds to block out unwanted light.

The official guidance says that it is for the Environmental Health Officer to exercise discretion over what is, or is not, reasonable. It might perhaps be reasonable to expect a complainant to use normal curtains or blinds if they are bothered by unwanted light but it might not be reasonable to expect the complainant to purchase heavy duty blinds or curtains. It is clearly not reasonable to leave the solution and cost of abatement to the complainant rather than the perpetrator.

Making a complaint about nuisance lighting

If negotiation with your neighbour fails to bring an acceptable solution please contact the Environmental Health team using the contact details below. 

Contact details for the Environmental Health Team