Halifax’s new lighting rules protect residents, but overlook wildlife, climate

Halifax residents can now complain when a neighbour’s lights shine into their homes.  

But Coun. Cathy Deagle Gammon says the municipality’s new nuisance amendment doesn’t address the impact of lights reflecting off water on fish and animals.  

On Tuesday, Halifax Regional Council unanimously adopted a bylaw that expands the city’s nuisance regulations to govern intrusive exterior lighting from light fixtures. 

The updated bylaw prohibits property owners from aiming outdoor lights into a house, balcony, deck, patio or backyard space next door if the light unreasonably disturbs residents. Enforcement is complaint-based and could result in a fine ranging from $50 to $1,000 per day.  

During debate, Deagle Gammon asked whether lights shining on lakes and rivers could affect fish. 

“As long as the light is coming from a property close to it, whether it’s across the road or if it’s across a little bit of a waterway, that would be considered adjacent,” said bylaw standards manager Steven Berkman during the meeting.

Berkman did not elaborate.

Mayor Andy Fillmore said a lighting bylaw should protect nature by requiring shielded fixtures that would keep light strictly within property lines. He also said an ideal lighting bylaw would consider water conservation.  

But “that’s not what we heard today,” Fillmore said. “We’re going to see how this goes, and if adjustments are necessary, then that’s what we’ll do.” 

Coun. Tony Mancini said light pollution is a climate issue, but he is unsure whether protecting wildlife from light falls to the city or the province. 

The municipality has already replaced most of its streetlights with bird-friendly, downward-facing LEDs.