Dark Sky Rules: Daly City vs San Mateo
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Daly City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
San Mateo has fewer restrictions than Daly City.
Daly City, CA
San Mateo County
Unincorporated San Mateo County regulates outdoor lighting through zoning standards requiring fully shielded (full-cutoff) fixtures, downward direction of light, and control of glare and light trespass onto neighboring properties. Title 24 Part 6 (California Energy Code §140.7) also caps outdoor lighting power density by zone. Coastal Zone and Scenic Road corridors impose additional lighting restrictions to protect nighttime views and sensitive habitat. Residential properties must not cast light onto neighboring dwellings.
View full Daly City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
San Mateo does not have a dedicated dark sky ordinance. Outdoor lighting on new development is regulated through the zoning code to minimize glare and light trespass. California Title 24 energy code sets efficiency requirements for outdoor lighting.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Daly City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture Type | Fully shielded (FCU) | - |
| Direction | Downward only | - |
| Color Temp | 3000K or below | - |
| Trespass Limit | 0.5 fc at property line | - |
| Coastal | Amber/shielded near habitat | - |
| Dark Sky Ordinance | - | None |
| New Development | - | Shielded, downward lighting required |
| Energy Code | - | CA Title 24 applies |
| Light Trespass | - | Nuisance complaint available |
| Contact | - | Code Enforcement — 650-522-7200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Daly City FAQ
Do I need to replace my existing outdoor lights to comply?
Existing compliant fixtures can remain in place (grandfathered). New installations, replacements, and major renovations must meet current full-cutoff and 3000K standards per Title 24 and County zoning. Replacing a single failed bulb doesn't trigger full retrofit, but replacing the fixture itself does.
My neighbor's flood light shines into my bedroom. What can I do?
Light trespass is a County zoning violation. First talk to the neighbor. If unresolved, file a code enforcement complaint with Planning & Building at (650) 363-4161 — they can require the neighbor to shield or redirect the fixture. Civil nuisance claim is also available under Civil Code §3479 if the trespass is substantial and ongoing.
San Mateo FAQ
Does San Mateo have dark sky rules?
No standalone ordinance. New development must have shielded, downward-directed lighting per zoning standards.
Can I complain about bright neighbor lights?
Yes. File a nuisance complaint with Code Enforcement at 650-522-7200.
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