Dark Sky Rules: Cambridge vs Lexington
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lexington, MA?
Cambridge and Lexington have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge Zoning Ordinance requires outdoor lighting to be shielded and directed downward to minimize glare and light trespass, supporting Net Zero and energy efficiency goals.
View full Cambridge rules →Lexington, MA
Middlesex County
Dark sky standards are set at the municipal level. Many towns require full-cutoff fixtures, shielded luminaires, and limits on correlated color temperature.
View full Lexington rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture standard | Full cutoff shielded | - |
| Direction | Downward | - |
| Residential trespass | 0.1 fc at line | - |
| Commercial trespass | 1.0 fc at line | - |
| Complaints | Inspectional Services | - |
| State law | - | None - municipal only |
| Fixtures | - | Full-cutoff common |
| CCT cap | - | Often 3000K |
| Line limit | - | 0.1 fc typical |
| Review | - | Photometric plan |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Are full-cutoff fixtures required?
Yes, Cambridge requires shielded, downward-directed outdoor lighting to reduce glare and trespass.
Can I use a floodlight in my backyard?
Yes if aimed downward and not creating glare onto neighbors or streets; motion activated is preferred.
Lexington FAQ
Do residential homes have to comply?
Enforcement is usually on new commercial and multifamily projects, though some bylaws reach residential.
Are string lights allowed?
Usually yes if shielded or used seasonally, but check local zoning.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Lexington compare on other ordinance categories.
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