Light Trespass: Green Valley vs Marana
How do light trespass rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Marana, AZ?
Marana has fewer restrictions than Green Valley.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code prohibits light trespass from outdoor fixtures onto adjacent properties. All fixtures must be fully shielded and directed downward to prevent spill onto neighboring parcels. Complaints about light trespass are handled through county code enforcement with particular rigor near the Kitt Peak Observatory buffer zone.
View full Green Valley rules →Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana and Pima County dark-sky regulations prohibit outdoor lighting from trespassing onto neighboring properties. All fixtures must be fully shielded and aimed to contain light within the property boundary. Complaints handled through code enforcement.
View full Marana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Marana |
|---|---|---|
| Property Line Limit | 0.5 footcandles max | - |
| Shielding | Full-cutoff required | - |
| Direction | Downward aim only | - |
| Compliance Window | 30 days after notice | - |
| Enforcement | County Code Enforcement | - |
| Standard | - | Light must not cross property lines |
| Fixture Type | - | Full cutoff shielding required |
| Security Lights | - | Must be shielded and aimed downward |
| Complaint Process | - | Marana Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
What is light trespass and is it regulated in Pima County?
Light trespass is light from an outdoor fixture spilling onto an adjacent property. Pima County strictly regulates it under the Outdoor Lighting Code. All fixtures must be fully shielded and aimed downward, with light at the property line not exceeding 0.5 footcandles in residential zones.
How do I report light trespass in Pima County?
File a complaint with Pima County Code Enforcement at 520-724-9000 or through the online portal. An inspector will evaluate the offending fixture and issue a notice of violation if it fails to meet the Outdoor Lighting Code requirements.
Marana FAQ
What can I do about a neighbor's bright lights in Marana?
File a complaint with Marana Code Enforcement. Pima County dark-sky rules require all outdoor lights to be fully shielded and not trespass onto neighboring properties.
Do security lights have to be shielded in Marana?
Yes. All outdoor lighting, including motion-activated security lights, must be fully shielded and aimed to prevent light trespass under Pima County dark-sky standards.
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