Outdoor Lighting in Monterey, CA (2026)
2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Monterey, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
New multifamily development in Monterey's South Side of Garden Road Multifamily Residential Overlay (MF1) must direct all exterior light sources downward and shield them, with no uplighting of building faces, and the lighting plan needs sign-off from the Monterey Peninsula Regional Airport Manager before construction permits issue.
Downward-Shielded Lighting in Monterey Overlay
Some RestrictionsMonterey City Code § 38-99.6(B)(10)
10. Lighting.All light sources shall be directed downward and focused on the subject so that no light spillage results. Prevent glare by using shielded and focused light sources; conceal all light sources from adjoining properties; use energy efficient light sources; use light sources that provide a quality of light similar to daylight; avoid “uplighting” of entire building faces, or outlining ...
Light Trespass & Shielding
Monterey requires every licensed cannabis business to run exterior lighting from dusk to dawn without producing glare onto neighboring properties, while still keeping every entrance to the premises illuminated for security.
Cannabis Site Lighting Glare Rule, Monterey
Some RestrictionsMonterey City Code § 38-99.8(C)(6)
6.Exterior lighting shall not result in glare on adjoining properties to ensure that all areas of the premises are visible and shall provide increased lighting at all entrances to the premises. The lighting shall be turned on from dusk to dawn.
Looking for Monterey County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Monterey city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in Monterey County →