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CityRuleLookup

Outdoor Lighting in Chesapeake, VA (2026)

2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Chesapeake, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Dark Sky Rules

Chesapeake requires full-cutoff exterior lighting for new commercial and multifamily development under Zoning Ordinance Section 19-800. Residential lighting is less regulated but cannot create glare or light trespass onto neighboring properties.

Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules

Some Restrictions

Light Trespass

Chesapeake prohibits lighting that creates glare or exceeds 0.5 footcandles at residential property lines under Zoning Ordinance 19-800. Complaints go to Code Compliance, which can order shielding or reduction within 30 days.

Outdoor Lighting: Light Trespass

Some Restrictions

Looking for Chesapeake City county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chesapeake city rules.

Outdoor Lighting in Chesapeake City