Outdoor Lighting in Colorado Springs, CO (2026)
2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Colorado Springs, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
Colorado Springs has adopted outdoor lighting standards in the Unified Development Code to reduce light pollution and protect dark skies. The city requires full-cutoff or shielded fixtures for commercial and multi-family development to prevent upward light emissions. Colorado Springs is near several military installations (Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base) and the U.S. Air Force Academy where excessive lighting can interfere with operations. El Paso County has also promoted dark sky practices, and nearby communities like Woodland Park have stricter dark sky ordinances.
Colorado Springs Dark Sky & Outdoor Lighting Rules
Some RestrictionsLight Trespass
Colorado Springs regulates light trespass through its outdoor lighting standards and nuisance provisions. Outdoor lighting on commercial and multi-family properties must be directed downward and shielded to prevent light spillover onto adjacent properties. Residential light trespass complaints can be addressed as nuisance violations when lighting unreasonably interferes with a neighbor's use and enjoyment of their property. The city's code enforcement division handles complaints about excessive or misdirected lighting from neighboring properties.
Colorado Springs Light Trespass Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for El Paso County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Colorado Springs city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in El Paso County →