Dark Sky Rules: Folsom vs Rancho Cordova
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Folsom, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA?
Folsom and Rancho Cordova have similar restriction levels.
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 →Rancho Cordova, CA
Sacramento County
Rancho Cordova outdoor lighting must be shielded and directed downward to minimize light pollution. The city zoning code requires cutoff fixtures for commercial and new residential development.
View full Rancho Cordova rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Folsom | Rancho Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| Code location | FMC Title 17 | - |
| Fixtures | Full-cutoff/shielded | Full cutoff required |
| Commercial | Photometric plan required | IES shielded mandatory |
| Sports lights | Curfew conditions | - |
| Dark Sky | No IDA designation | - |
| State Code | - | Title 24 Part 6 |
| Lighting Zone | - | LZ3 typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Rancho Cordova FAQ
Can I use flood lights to illuminate my yard?
Yes, but they must be shielded so the light source is not visible beyond your property line and should be aimed downward.
Who enforces this in Rancho Cordova?
Rancho Cordova code enforcement at (916) 851-8800 handles most complaints.
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