Light and glare

Brisbane City Council investigates complaints about light and glare that come from advertising signs, events, Council's parks, properties and streetlights, and commercial and private properties (such as flood lights or sensor lights). Lighting on freeways and their on and off ramps are usually the responsibility of the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Lodge a complaint

When investigating a light complaint, Council will consider:

  • the amount of light
  • the duration and rate of emission and the light's characteristics and qualities
  • the sensitivity of the environment and the impact of the light 
  • the position of the light and any measures that have been taken to reduce its impact on neighbours. 

For more information, download our fact sheet, contact Council or find out more about lodging a complaint about an environmental nuisance issue.

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Reducing light and glare

Tips to reduce light and glare emissions include:

  • Install timer or sensor lights and ensure lights are turned off when not required for safety or security reasons or when enhancing a night-time scene.
  • When buying external lights, consider their brightness. The lower the brightness, the less likely they will impact on neighbours. Warm white, lower lumen, light-emitting diode (LED) light globes should have less impact on neighbours.
  • Locate the light source as far as possible from neighbours and away from sensitive areas (e.g. bedroom windows and living areas).
  • Avoid placing the light near a light reflective surface and use existing features to hide the light source from view.
  • Wherever possible, direct light downwards, not upwards, to illuminate the target area. If there is no alternative to up-lighting, using shields will help keep spill light to a minimum.
  • Use specifically designed lighting equipment that, once installed, minimises the spread of light near to, or above the horizontal.
  • Don't over-light. Less is more for your neighbours and your electricity bill. 
  • Ensure that the main beam angle of all lights directed towards any sensitive place is kept below 70 degrees. You can also use light shields to help minimise glare and the impact on neighbouring properties. 
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Brisbane City Council acknowledges this Country and its Traditional Custodians. We pay our respects to the Elders, those who have passed into the Dreaming; those here today; those of tomorrow.