Residents press Lancaster board for clear rules to curb LED 'light trespass'

Residents packed a June 15 public hearing to urge clearer municipal standards on outdoor lighting, focusing on modern LED fixtures that neighbors say spill bright, focused light onto adjacent properties.

Doug Feringer, a resident who said he has experienced multiple disruptive incidents, told the board the draft law should include concrete metrics and enforceable rules such as a prohibition on light trespass, shielding requirements, and aiming/direction standards for LED fixtures. “Including these elements makes it more enforceable and clear,” he said.

Other speakers described individual disputes: Kevin Lee Master and Janine Lucy recounted nearby garage lights that they said blinded living rooms or were installed without agreement; Lucy said she adjusted and angled a newly installed light multiple times to accommodate a complaining neighbor and provided photographs to the town. Kenneth Krug and other speakers urged that the draft language explicitly reference light trespass, defined as unwanted artificial light spilling onto other properties.

Some residents worried about unintended consequences. A number of participants asked whether holiday decorations and seasonal displays would be exempted. Jay Marks, a theatrical lighting designer, asked whether common holiday and decorative lighting would be affected and sought clarity about exemptions.

Others raised public safety concerns, arguing that bright security lighting can deter crime and that restrictions should not inadvertently reduce safety for homeowners who rely on exterior illumination.

The board’s attorney and staff took notes and the town attorney indicated suggested edits were being recorded. No vote was taken; the hearing provided staff and counsel with community input to refine the proposed local law. The board said it will consider amendments and return the draft for additional review and hearings as necessary.