Long Beach's Outdoor Lighting: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles outdoor lighting a little differently. In Long Beach, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Dark Sky Rules

Long Beach does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance. Outdoor lighting is regulated through the zoning code Ch. 21.45 which requires shielding of floodlights so light sources are not visible from public rights-of-way or adjacent properties.

Key details: Dark Sky Ordinance: None specific. Floodlights: Must be hooded/shielded. Sign Lighting: No beacons, spots, or strobes. Code: LBMC Ch. 21.45.

Non-compliant fixtures: notice to correct within 30 days. Failure to comply: fines $100 to $500. Commercial violations: permit revocation possible. Repeat offenders: daily fines.

Long Beach is more permissive than most cities when it comes to dark sky rules. That said, there are still limits.

Light Trespass

Long Beach zoning code prohibits sign illumination systems from using beacons, spots, or stroboscopic lights visible from public right-of-way or adjacent properties. Floodlights must be shielded so light source is not visible from dwellings.

Key details: Prohibited: Beacons, strobes, unshielded floods. Shielding: Required for all floodlights. Residential: Light source not visible from dwellings. Code: LBMC Ch. 21.44, Ch. 21.45.

Light trespass complaint: warning and 30-day correction period. Non-compliance: fines $100 to $300 per violation. Repeated complaints: escalating fines. Commercial violations: up to $1,000.

The Bottom Line

Long Beach's outdoor lighting rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Long Beach is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Long Beach can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.