Dark Sky Rules: Camarillo vs Simi Valley
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Simi Valley, CA?
Camarillo and Simi Valley have similar restriction levels.
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 →Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Simi Valley regulates outdoor lighting to minimize light pollution and glare affecting neighboring properties. The city's Development Code includes standards for shielding, intensity, and direction of exterior lighting on residential and commercial properties.
View full Simi Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Simi Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Overlay Zone | Dark Sky (DKS) per §8104-7.6 | - |
| Shielding | Full shielding required | Required on all exterior lighting |
| Security Lights (Ag) | 2,600 lumens maximum | - |
| Direction | Downward-directed only | Downward, no trespass |
| Coverage | Ojai Valley, Santa Monica Mountains | - |
| Property Line Limit | - | 0.5 foot-candles residential |
| Code Enforcement | - | (805) 583-6238 |
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.
Simi Valley FAQ
Are there limits on outdoor lighting in Simi Valley?
Yes, exterior lighting must be shielded and directed downward. Light may not trespass onto neighboring properties above 0.5 foot-candles at the property line.
Can my neighbor's security light shine into my yard?
No, security lights must be shielded and directed to avoid illuminating neighboring properties. File a complaint with Code Enforcement at (805) 583-6238 if lights trespass.
What type of outdoor lights are recommended?
Full cutoff, downward-directed fixtures are recommended. LED and warm-color temperature lights minimize glare and sky glow. Avoid unshielded flood lights and mercury vapor fixtures.
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