Dark Sky Rules: Camarillo vs Oxnard

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.

Does Oxnard have dark sky lighting rules?

Oxnard requires shielded, downward-directed outdoor lighting for new development. While not a designated International Dark Sky community, the city regulates light trespass and glare.

Can my neighbor's lights be too bright in Oxnard?

Yes. Outdoor lighting that causes glare or excessive illumination on neighboring properties may be cited as a nuisance. Contact Code Enforcement at (805) 385-7858 to report issues.

What lighting is required for Oxnard parking lots?

Commercial parking lots must comply with California Title 24 lighting standards including efficiency requirements, maximum illumination levels, and light trespass limits at property boundaries.