Dark Sky Rules: Camarillo vs Ojai
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Ojai, CA?
Camarillo has fewer restrictions than Ojai.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Ventura County's Dark Sky (DKS) overlay zone under §8104-7.6 restricts outdoor lighting in designated rural areas including the Ojai Valley and Santa Monica Mountains. Requirements include full shielding, downward-directed lighting, maximum lumen limits, and warm color temperatures to protect the night sky.
View full Camarillo rules →Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Ojai has a strong dark sky ordinance regulating outdoor lighting to preserve the night sky and the valley's rural character. All exterior fixtures must be fully shielded (full cutoff). Maximum color temperature is 3000K (warm white). Mercury vapor and unshielded floodlights are prohibited.
View full Ojai rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Ojai |
|---|---|---|
| Overlay Zone | Dark Sky (DKS) per §8104-7.6 | - |
| Shielding | Full shielding required | - |
| Security Lights (Ag) | 2,600 lumens maximum | - |
| Direction | Downward-directed only | - |
| Coverage | Ojai Valley, Santa Monica Mountains | - |
| Fixtures | - | Fully shielded (full cutoff) required |
| Color Temperature | - | 3000K maximum (warm white) |
| Prohibited | - | Mercury vapor, unshielded floods |
| Security Lights | - | Motion sensor, 60W max equivalent |
| Upgrade Trigger | - | Property sale or remodel |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
Does Ventura County have dark sky rules?
Yes. The Dark Sky (DKS) overlay zone under §8104-7.6 restricts outdoor lighting in rural areas including the Ojai Valley and parts of the Santa Monica Mountains. Full shielding and downward direction are required.
Am I in the Dark Sky overlay zone?
Check with the Planning Division at (805) 654-2488 or review overlay zone maps on planning.lacounty.gov. The DKS zone primarily covers rural areas in the Ojai Valley and Santa Monica Mountains.
What are the lighting requirements in DKS zones?
All outdoor lighting must be fully shielded with no upward emission, directed downward, and within maximum lumen limits. Security lights in agricultural zones are capped at 2,600 lumens.
Ojai FAQ
What kind of outdoor lights can I use in Ojai?
Only fully shielded fixtures that direct light downward. Maximum 3000K color temperature (warm white). No mercury vapor or unshielded floodlights.
Why does Ojai have dark sky rules?
The city values its rural character and night sky visibility. The ordinance supports the arts community, tourism (stargazing), and wildlife by minimizing light pollution in the valley.
Do I have to replace my existing lights?
Non-conforming fixtures must be upgraded at the time of property sale or substantial remodel. Voluntary compliance is encouraged.
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