Dark Sky Rules: Elk Grove vs Folsom
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Elk Grove, CA and Folsom, CA?
Elk Grove and Folsom have similar restriction levels.
Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Elk Grove regulates outdoor lighting through Zoning Code Title 23 to minimize glare and light pollution. Non-residential and multifamily developments must use shielded fixtures and comply with Title 24 Part 6 exterior lighting standards.
View full Elk Grove rules →Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom Municipal Code Title 17 requires outdoor lighting to be shielded and directed downward to reduce glare and light pollution. Lighting plans are required for new commercial development. No formal Dark Sky designation, but Folsom Lake SRA areas favor minimal lighting.
View full Folsom rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Elk Grove | Folsom |
|---|---|---|
| Code basis | EGMC Title 23 + Title 24 Part 6 | - |
| Lighting zone | LZ2 (typical) | - |
| Fixtures | Full-cutoff / shielded | Full-cutoff/shielded |
| Photometric plan | Required for commercial | - |
| IDA designation | None (not certified) | - |
| Code location | - | FMC Title 17 |
| Commercial | - | Photometric plan required |
| Sports lights | - | Curfew conditions |
| Dark Sky | - | No IDA designation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Elk Grove FAQ
Do residential homeowners need permits for outdoor lights?
Generally no for replacement fixtures, but the installation must meet electrical code and avoid light trespass onto neighbors.
Are unshielded floodlights allowed?
In residential zones, they are discouraged and subject to nuisance complaints; in commercial zones, full-cutoff shielding is required.
Folsom FAQ
Do Folsom homeowners need a lighting plan?
No. Residential outdoor lighting does not require a photometric plan. However, fixtures cannot cause direct glare onto neighboring property or the public right-of-way.
Who enforces this in Folsom?
Folsom code enforcement at (916) 355-7285 handles most complaints.
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