Dark Sky Rules: Clovis vs Fresno
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Clovis, CA and Fresno, CA?
Clovis and Fresno have similar restriction levels.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Clovis enforces outdoor lighting standards under CMC Chapter 9 zoning requiring shielded fixtures to prevent glare and trespass. Not an official International Dark-Sky community, but foothill-adjacent development in east Clovis has stricter shielding standards.
View full Clovis rules →Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Fresno's Development Code under FMC Chapter 15 includes outdoor lighting standards that address light pollution and glare. While Fresno does not have a standalone dark-sky ordinance, the Development Code requires exterior lighting to be shielded and directed downward to minimize light trespass and sky glow. New development and major renovations must submit lighting plans demonstrating compliance with these standards.
View full Fresno rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Shielded Required | All outdoor fixtures | - |
| Code | CMC §9.24; CALGreen | - |
| Lighting Zone | LZ-2 | - |
| LED Warmth | 3000K or warmer | - |
| Code Section | - | FMC Chapter 15 - Development Code |
| Commercial Standard | - | Full-cutoff fixtures required |
| Shielding | - | Downward-directed lighting required |
| Light Plans | - | Required for new development |
| Residential | - | Must not create nuisance for neighbors |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Can I install bright security floodlights?
Yes, but they must be shielded and directed downward to avoid glare and light trespass onto neighbor properties or streets.
Is Clovis a Dark-Sky city?
Not an official IDA-designated Dark Sky community. However, standard shielding and glare rules apply citywide under the zoning code and Title 24.
Fresno FAQ
Does Fresno have a dark-sky ordinance?
Fresno does not have a standalone dark-sky ordinance, but the Development Code requires shielded, downward-directed exterior lighting for new development to minimize light pollution and glare.
Can I complain about my neighbor's bright lights?
Yes. If a neighbor's lighting creates unreasonable glare or light trespass onto your property, you can file a nuisance complaint with Code Enforcement.
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