From April 2006  the nuisance provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 have been extended to cover artificial light emitted from premises (excluding transport facilities, freight depots, lighthouses, defence premises and prisons). Abatement notices can be served by the Council if light, for example from domestic security lights, is causing a nuisance. For light to be a nuisance it would have to materially affect someone's use of their home, or their health, based on average sensibilities.

On receipt of complaints about nuisance lighting, we will contact the owner of the light, to suggest that they contact the occupiers of neighbouring properties to ensure that lighting on their premises is not causing a disturbance. It is also advisable that the complainant contact the owner directly to discuss the problem, with a view to resolving the issue amicably.

Complainants are advised to keep a record of the times and duration of alleged nuisance should they wish to pursue the matter further. If problems are not resolved an officer will investigate whether, in their opinion, the light is causing a nuisance. For more information see Nuisances.

High Hedges legislation is dealt with by our Arun's Parks and Green Spaces Service.

More detailed information on how you can reduce light pollution is available from the The Institution of Lighting Engineers, who produce a range of advice leaflets.  See also Environmental Protection UK and Campaign for Dark Skies for information on the wider environmental problem of light pollution.

More detailed information on the law, and Government guidance is available at http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/quality/local/nuisance/light/index.htm