Dark Sky Rules: Anaheim vs Costa Mesa
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Costa Mesa, CA?
Anaheim and Costa Mesa have similar restriction levels.
Anaheim, CA
Orange County
Anaheim regulates outdoor lighting through zoning code provisions under AMC Title 18. Lighting must not create glare or light trespass onto neighboring properties. California Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24) also apply.
View full Anaheim rules →Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa regulates outdoor lighting through its zoning and development standards to minimize light pollution, glare, and impacts on neighboring properties. While the city does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance, new development must comply with lighting standards including shielding requirements and California Title 24 energy efficiency standards for outdoor lighting.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Anaheim | Costa Mesa |
|---|---|---|
| Glare | Must prevent trespass | - |
| Title 24 | Energy standards apply | - |
| Dark-Sky Ordinance | None standalone | - |
| Code | AMC Title 18 | - |
| Standalone Dark Sky Ordinance | - | No |
| Shielding Required | - | New construction/remodels |
| State Standards | - | CA Title 24 applies |
| Nuisance Standard | - | Title 20 applies |
| Code Enforcement | - | (714) 754-5623 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Anaheim FAQ
Does Anaheim have a dark-sky ordinance?
No standalone dark-sky ordinance. However, outdoor lighting must not create glare or light trespass per AMC Title 18 and must meet Title 24 efficiency standards.
Can my neighbor's security light shine into my yard?
Light trespass is regulated. Contact Code Enforcement at 714-765-5158 if a neighbor's lighting unreasonably illuminates your property.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Does Costa Mesa have a dark sky ordinance?
Costa Mesa does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance. However, outdoor lighting on new development must comply with shielding and directionality requirements in the zoning code, and California Title 24 energy efficiency standards apply to all outdoor lighting installations.
Can I complain about a neighbor's bright lights in Costa Mesa?
Yes. Outdoor lighting that unreasonably disturbs neighbors may constitute a nuisance under Title 20 of the Municipal Code. Contact Code Enforcement at (714) 754-5623 to file a complaint.
What lighting standards apply to new construction in Costa Mesa?
New development must use shielded, downward-directed fixtures that do not create glare or shine onto adjacent properties. All installations must comply with California Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for maximum wattage and efficiency.
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