Outdoor Lighting in Berkeley, CA (2026)
2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Berkeley, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
Berkeley requires all exterior lighting in Residential Districts to be shielded and aimed downward and away from lot lines so glare does not spill onto neighboring property. Motion-sensor fixtures cannot be triggered by activity happening off the lot where the light sits.
Berkeley Exterior Lighting Shielding Rules
Some RestrictionsBerkeley, CA, Municipal Code § 23.304.100(E) (Site Features in Residential Districts, Exterior Lighting)
E. Exterior Lighting. 1. All exterior lighting shall be shielded and directed downward and away from lot lines to prevent excessive glare beyond the property on which the light is located. 2. Lights on motion sensors may not be triggered by movement or activity located off the property on which the light is located. (Ord. 8007-NS § 13, 2026; Ord. 7787-NS § 2 (Exh. A), 2021)
Light Trespass & Shielding
Berkeley requires all exterior lighting on residential lots to be shielded and pointed downward and away from lot lines, and it bars motion-sensor lights from being triggered by activity happening off the property they sit on.
Berkeley Light Trespass Rules for Residential Sites
Some RestrictionsBerkeley Municipal Code § 23.304.100(E)
E. Exterior Lighting. 1. All exterior lighting shall be shielded and directed downward and away from lot lines to prevent excessive glare beyond the property on which the light is located. 2. Lights on motion sensors may not be triggered by movement or activity located off the property on which the light is located.
Looking for Alameda County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Berkeley city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in Alameda County →