How Mission Handles Outdoor Lighting: A Practical Guide
Mission maintains 75 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with outdoor lighting. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Mission falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Dark Sky Rules
Nonresidential properties in Mission must use cut-off light fixtures and cap illumination at the property line, with tighter limits next to residential zoning to curb light trespass and glare.
Key details: Fixture type: Cut-off required, nonresidential. Residential-line cap: 0.2 footcandles. Nonresidential-line cap: 5 footcandles. On-site max anywhere: 60 footcandles. Decorative fixture cap: 1,500 lumens, 15 ft.
Violating the lighting standards is a zoning-code offense: Sec. 1-14 sets fines up to $2,000 for zoning violations. The city can also separately order a fixture found to be a public hazard or nuisance modified, limited, or removed under Sec. 98-15(l)(4).
Light Trespass & Shielding
Mission requires cut-off fixtures on nonresidential lighting so light isn't visible at the property line, capping illumination near residential zones at two-tenths footcandle and requiring shielded spotlights citywide.
Key details: Governing rule: Cut-off fixtures required near residential zones. Property-line cap: 0.2 footcandle max near residential zoning. Decorative exception: 1,500 lumens max, 15-ft height. Shielded spotlights: Screened by landscaping, walls, or cut-off shielding. Enforcement: City can order fixture removal or modification.
The city can order modification, removal, or limited operation of any lighting fixture found to be a public hazard or nuisance, after notice to the property owner.
The Bottom Line
Mission'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 Mission is broadly strict or permissive.
Keep in mind that Mission 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.