Light Trespass: Brentwood vs Oakley
How do light trespass rules compare between Brentwood, CA and Oakley, CA?
Brentwood and Oakley have similar restriction levels.
Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
Brentwood's code prohibits outdoor lighting that produces excessive glare or spills onto neighboring properties at levels high enough to disturb use and enjoyment. Typical standards limit residential property-line illuminance to about 0.1 foot-candles and require shielded fixtures for bright sources.
View full Brentwood rules →Oakley, CA
Contra Costa County
Oakley encourages dark-sky-friendly lighting practices consistent with California Title 24 and regional dark-sky initiatives. Upward-directed lighting and excessive illumination are discouraged. Commercial signage lighting is restricted after business hours, and new development is reviewed for compliance with sky-glow reduction principles.
View full Oakley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | Oakley |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Fact | - | Full-cutoff fixtures and downward throw required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brentwood FAQ
Oakley FAQ
Can I point a spotlight up at my house?
Upward-directed lighting is discouraged. Narrowly shielded architectural accent lighting may be permitted if properly aimed and low-lumen.
Must commercial signs turn off at night?
Yes, typically within one hour of close of business. Internally illuminated signs and externally lit signs are both affected.
Is light pollution legally a nuisance?
Unreasonable light trespass from a neighboring property can constitute a private nuisance under Civil Code §3479, in addition to any code violation.
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