Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Maryland

Nuisance

A neighbor and I have been quietly feuding for the

past year or so. They now have directed a very

bright spotlight into my home so that it lights up

my entire deck, kitchen and family room. The light

is pointed so that it serves no function other than

to provide a nuisance for my home. It provides no

appreciable light to their property, only the side of

my house. The light is on from about 5pm to

7am. I have tried to ask her to redirect the light so

that it does not create such a nuisance, however

when I approached her she put her fingers in her

ears and walked away. I have been told that there

is no law to prevent her from doing this, however I

believe that there has to be something relating to

privacy or public nuisance that would apply here.

If this was a radio that could be heard from my

house, the police would be able to make her turn

it down, why do they refuse to do the same for a

bothersome light? Neither of us own the houses,

her landlord is her mother, who lives in her home.


Asked on 5/15/01, 10:44 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lawrence Holzman Holzman Law Firm, LLC

Re: Nuisance

Sounds quite annoying. Frankly, I would have to research the issue before responding substantively; there may be regulations regarding outdoor lighting in local zoning, building codes etc. There are some common law causes of action that might be applicable, but would require some research to evaluate.

Although I am happy to conduct such efforts on your behalf (and you may call at your convenience if you would like to set up an appointment) the most economical response (though probably not the most emotionally satisfying one) may be to simply install darker shades and/or to rent a different house.

Please call if you would like follow-up.

Lawrence R. Holzman, Esquire

Joseph, Greenwald & Laake, P.A.

6404 Ivy Lane, Suite 400

Greenbelt, MD 20770

(301) 220-2200

fax (301) 220-1214

Disclaimer: Please note that the posting of this response is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should contact an attorney to obtain information applicable to your situation. This posting is not confidential or privileged and does not create an attorney/client relationship.

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Answered on 6/24/01, 12:57 pm


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