Outdoor Lighting in Spokane Valley, WA (2026)
3 verified outdoor lighting rules for Spokane Valley, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
Spokane Valley requires new or modified outdoor lighting on commercial and multifamily sites to be shielded so light doesn't spill across property lines or into the right-of-way. SVMC § 22.60.030(A)-(B) sets the shielding standard, while § 22.60.040 bans laser, strobe and searchlight fixtures outright unless a temporary event permit is issued.
Spokane Valley Outdoor Lighting Shielding Rule
Some RestrictionsSpokane Valley Code § 22.60.030(A)-(B)
A. All outdoor lights shall include a light source and reflector that controls the light beam so that unshielded light does not extend across any bounding property line between incompatible uses or into the public right-of-way. B. Outdoor lighting fixtures shall be designed so that the light source is shielded at any bounding property line except where topographical characteristics make this im...
Light Trespass & Shielding
Spokane Valley requires all outdoor lighting in residential zones to be shielded so it doesn't spill glare onto neighboring property, and bars fixtures from emitting light above 90 degrees, under SVMC § 19.70.050(I)(3). Parking lot lights are also capped at 24 feet and walkway lights at 16 feet.
Spokane Valley Outdoor Lighting Glare Rules
Some RestrictionsSpokane Valley Code § 19.70.050(I)
I. The following design standards apply to all outdoor lighting in residential zones: 1. All new development shall provide lighting within parking lots, along pedestrian walkways, and accessible routes of travel. 2. Lighting fixtures shall be limited to heights of no more than 24 feet for parking lots and no more than 16 feet for pedestrian walkways. 3. All lighting shall be shielded from p...
Billboard Lighting
Spokane Valley has no lighting standard written specifically for billboards; instead, the general sign-lighting rule in SVMC § 22.110.060(A) governs any illuminated sign, including a billboard, since the code defines a billboard as a type of sign. Exterior lighting must stay confined to the sign face and cannot throw glare past the property line.
Spokane Valley Sign and Billboard Lighting Rules
Some RestrictionsSpokane Valley Municipal Code § 22.110.060(A)
A. All signs illuminated with exterior lighting shall have lighting confined to the sign, and positioned and shielded to minimize impacts to the surrounding area(s). Gooseneck reflectors and lights are permitted on permanent freestanding and wall signs; provided, that lighting or glare does not extend beyond the property line.
Looking for Spokane County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Spokane Valley city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in Spokane County →