Outdoor Lighting in Albuquerque, NM (2026)
2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Albuquerque, New Mexico, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
New Mexico enacted the Night Sky Protection Act (NMSA §74-12-1 et seq.) in 1999, one of the first state-level dark sky laws in the nation. Albuquerque enforces outdoor lighting standards through the IDO that align with and supplement the state act. All outdoor lighting fixtures must be shielded and directed downward to minimize light pollution and protect New Mexico's renowned night skies.
Albuquerque Dark Sky & Outdoor Lighting Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLight Trespass
Albuquerque addresses light trespass through the IDO outdoor lighting standards and the state Night Sky Protection Act. Outdoor lighting must be designed and aimed to prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties. Full-cutoff fixtures are required to minimize both upward light waste and horizontal light trespass.
Albuquerque Light Trespass Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Bernalillo County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Albuquerque city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in Bernalillo County →