Dark Sky Rules: Fremont vs Hayward
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Fremont, CA and Hayward, CA?
Fremont and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont requires shielded outdoor lighting under zoning standards, with stricter full-cutoff requirements in the Hillside Combining District to protect night skies.
View full Fremont rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Hayward requires outdoor lighting to be shielded and directed downward to minimize glare and light pollution. Commercial and parking lot lighting must use full cutoff fixtures under the zoning code.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fremont | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Shielding | Required | Required for all fixtures |
| Commercial | Full-cutoff IESNA | - |
| Hillside | Dark sky standards | - |
| Residential Exempt | Under 1,000 lumens | - |
| Contact | (510) 494-4455 | - |
| Residential limit | - | 0.5 fc at property line |
| Parking lots | - | Full cutoff required |
| Title 24 | - | Energy limits apply |
| Holiday lights | - | Exempt |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fremont FAQ
Can I install bright security floodlights?
Yes, but fixtures must be shielded and aimed at your own property, not onto neighbors or the street.
Are string lights allowed in my backyard?
Yes, decorative low-lumen lights are exempt; keep intensity modest to avoid light trespass complaints.
Hayward FAQ
Can I install a security floodlight facing my yard?
Yes if properly shielded and not shining onto neighbors; motion sensors are encouraged.
Are string lights allowed?
Decorative string and holiday lighting are generally exempt from the outdoor lighting standards.
Compare other topics
See how Fremont and Hayward compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool