Tucson's Outdoor Lighting: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles outdoor lighting a little differently. In Tucson, Arizona, 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.

Billboard Lighting

Any illuminated sign in Tucson, billboards included, must comply with the separately adopted Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code, and breaking it is a civil infraction carrying a $50 to $1,000 fine for every violation, with each day of noncompliance counted separately.

Key details: Governing code: Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code, Sec. 6-101. Applies to: All illuminated signs, incl. billboards. Fine range: $50–$1,000 per violation. Continuing violation: Each day is a separate offense. Enforcement body: Administrative Hearing Office, technical division.

Sec. 6-104 makes an Outdoor Lighting Code violation a civil infraction punishable by a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $1,000 per violation, with the fine imposition never suspended by the judge. Each day the violation continues is a separate offense, and the hearing officer can also order correction or abatement of the noncompliant fixture.

Light Trespass & Shielding

Tucson has enforced the City of Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code since 1985, adopted by reference in City Code § 6-101. Violations are a civil infraction carrying fines of $50 to $1,000 per day under § 6-104.

Key details: Governing code: City of Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code. Adopted by: § 6-101, Ord. No. 10963 Exhibit A. Fine range: $50–$1,000 per violation, per day. Enforcement forum: Administrative hearing office, technical division. Original 1981 name: Light Pollution Code.

A civil infraction under § 6-104, with a mandatory (non-suspendable) fine between $50 and $1,000 per violation. Each day the noncompliant fixture remains lit is a separate offense, and the technical division of the administrative hearing office has exclusive jurisdiction to hear the case and order correction or abatement.

The Bottom Line

Tucson'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 Tucson is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Tucson's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.