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From time to time we receive complaints about:

  • light pollution of the night sky
  • loss of light due to high hedges, neighbours trees
  • interference by light due to security lights shining in bedrooms

Light pollution of the night sky

We currently have no power to deal with light pollution of the night sky. Planning and development control services may take into account factors that affect the amenity of an area when considering individual planning applications.    

Further information on light pollution of the night sky can be on the Campaign to Protect Rural England website. 

Loss of light due to hedges

High hedges affecting the reasonable enjoyment of domestic property feature in the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, for further information and to download a high hedge complaint form you should see the our high hedges page.

Light shining into rooms

We can investigate light that affects a person in their property under the statutory nuisance provision of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. 

Minimising light nuisance from external lights

If you are installing security and other lights, then more information on minimising light nuisance can be found in the Guidance for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light from the Institution of Lighting Professionals

Reporting a complaint of light pollution

Please report light pollution

Other information

Defra Policy update - Artificial Light in the Environment Policy Update - December 2013.

Defra Guidance - Statutory Nuisance Artificial Light.