Dark Sky Rules: Isleton vs Rancho Cordova
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Isleton, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA?
Isleton and Rancho Cordova have similar restriction levels.
Isleton, CA
Sacramento County
Unincorporated Sacramento County has no comprehensive dark-sky ordinance for single-family homes. However, the Zoning Code requires full cut-off, shielded, downward-directed lighting for multifamily, commercial, and parking-area fixtures (Sec. 5.4.3, 5.9.4.G) to reduce light pollution and glare, referencing IESNA standards.
View full Isleton 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 | Isleton | Rancho Cordova |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive dark-sky ordinance | None for single-family homes | - |
| Multifamily/commercial fixtures | Full cut-off, fully shielded, downward-directed | - |
| Standard referenced | IESNA full cut-off definition | - |
| Parking-area lighting | No fixture may illuminate off-site (Sec. 5.9.4.G) | - |
| Timing controls | Timer/photocell, dusk-to-dawn operation (multifamily) | - |
| Code section | Zoning Code Sec. 5.4.3, 5.9.4.G | - |
| Fixtures | - | Full cutoff required |
| Commercial | - | IES shielded mandatory |
| State Code | - | Title 24 Part 6 |
| Lighting Zone | - | LZ3 typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Isleton FAQ
Does unincorporated Sacramento County have a dark-sky ordinance?
Not a comprehensive one for single-family homes. The Zoning Code requires full cut-off, shielded, downward-aimed lighting for multifamily, commercial, and parking-area uses (Sections 5.4.3 and 5.9.4.G) to limit light pollution, referencing IESNA standards.
What lighting standard applies to a new apartment or commercial parking lot?
New fixtures must be full cut-off as defined by IESNA, fully shielded or recessed, and directed downward and away so that no fixture illuminates an area outside the site, per Sections 5.4.3 and 5.9.4.G.
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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