Garden security lighting is one of the most requested upgrades we handle in St Albans. Whether it’s to illuminate a patio, protect a back garden, or deter intruders near side access, outdoor lighting has become almost standard for local homes.
But there’s a common problem many homeowners face: nuisance lighting. Poorly positioned lights can cause glare, shine directly into neighbours’ windows, or even trigger complaints to the council. For St Albans, with its mix of close-knit terraced houses, conservation areas, and family gardens, this is a particularly sensitive issue.
At JJB Electrical, we’ve helped St Albans homeowners strike the balance between safety and neighbourly consideration. In this guide, we’ll explain why glare matters, how to avoid it, and how to design garden security lighting that keeps everyone happy.
Why Glare Is a Problem
Glare happens when a light is too bright or poorly positioned. Instead of improving visibility, it creates discomfort and makes it harder to see.
Problems caused by glare include:
- Reduced visibility – Overly bright lights can actually make it harder to see by creating shadows.
- Neighbour disturbance – Lights shining into bedrooms disrupt sleep and lead to complaints.
- Legal implications – Councils can act if lighting is considered a statutory nuisance.
- Wasted energy – Over-bright fittings waste electricity and add unnecessary cost.
Local Context: St Albans Housing
St Albans has a unique mix of housing, which affects lighting decisions:
- Historic properties near the Cathedral and town centre – Many have smaller gardens, where light spill can easily cause issues.
- Modern family estates – Close spacing means neighbours are directly affected by poor positioning.
- Detached homes in outlying villages – Larger gardens need stronger, broader lighting but still require care to avoid glare.
Regulations and Nuisance Law
Security lighting itself rarely requires planning permission in St Albans, but that doesn’t mean there are no rules.
The Environmental Protection Act allows councils to intervene if artificial light is considered a statutory nuisance.
Nuisance examples: lights that shine directly into neighbours’ windows or remain on unnecessarily.
Council action: Broxbourne Borough Council (which covers Cheshunt) and St Albans City & District Council can issue notices requiring adjustments.
In short: you’re free to install lights, but they must be positioned responsibly.
How to Avoid Glare and Nuisance
Choose the right brightness: Garden lighting doesn’t need to be excessively bright. 500–1,000 lumens is often enough for outdoor spaces.
- Angle lights downward - Direct beams towards the ground, not into the sky or neighbouring windows.
- Use shielded fittings - Hoods or covers can help control the beam spread.
- Install motion sensors - PIR lights only activate when needed, reducing constant glare.
- Warm colour temperature - Softer “warm white” LEDs are less harsh than cool white.
Case Example: Semi in Fleetville, St Albans
A homeowner had installed a 2,000-lumen floodlight that illuminated the entire back garden — and their neighbour’s bedroom. Complaints followed quickly. We replaced it with:
- Two 700-lumen LED PIR lights, angled downwards.
- Shielded housings to reduce spread.
- Warm white bulbs for softer ambience.
The result: effective security without glare or complaints.
Myths vs Facts About Nuisance Lighting
Myth: The brighter the light, the safer the garden.
Fact: Too much brightness creates shadows intruders can hide in. Balanced lighting is more effective.
Myth: Complaints are inevitable.
Fact: With correct positioning and brightness, security lights enhance safety without causing issues.
Myth: All security lights look harsh.
Fact: Modern LEDs can provide soft, attractive lighting.
Myth: You need planning permission for all garden lights.
Fact: In most cases, you don’t — but nuisance laws still apply.
FAQs for St Albans Garden Lighting
Q: Do I need planning permission for garden security lights in St Albans?
Not usually, but conservation areas may have restrictions.
Q: How bright should garden security lights be?
500–1,000 lumens is usually sufficient.
Q: Can my neighbour complain about my lights?
Yes — if lights shine into their property, it can be classed as a nuisance.
Q: Are motion sensors better than lights that stay on all night?
Yes — they save energy and reduce the risk of complaints.
Q: What’s the best colour temperature for gardens?
Warm white (around 3000K) provides effective lighting without harshness.
Q: Can lights improve CCTV footage?
Yes — well-placed lights improve clarity.
Q: How high should lights be mounted?
Around 2.5–3 metres is best for spread and security.
Q: Do garden lights attract burglars by showing off what’s there?
No — studies show well-lit properties are less likely to be targeted.
Q: Can lights be connected to smart systems?
Yes — many modern security lights can be app-controlled.
Q: How long do LED security lights last?
Typically 10–15 years.
Why Choose JJB Electrical in St Albans
- Local expertise – We understand the mix of historic and modern housing in St Albans.
- Compliance first – All installations meet safety standards and avoid nuisance issues.
- Accredited – NAPIT registered, Which? Trusted Trader.
- 6-point promise – Timekeeping, cleanliness, respect, courtesy, trust, honesty.
We don’t just install lights; we design systems that protect your home while keeping neighbour relations positive.
For St Albans homeowners, garden security lighting is an excellent investment in safety and peace of mind. But it has to be done right. Poorly placed or overly bright lights can create glare, upset neighbours, and even land you in trouble with the council.
At JJB Electrical, we specialise in installations that balance security with sensitivity. We’ll make sure your garden is safe, well-lit, and complaint-free.
📞 Call us today on 01992 276087 or visit our service page to arrange your garden security lighting in St Albans.
