Los Angeles vs Pasadena
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Los Angeles and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LA does not have a dedicated dark-sky ordinance but LAMC 93.0117 regulates outdoor lighting affecting residential property. No exterior light may illuminate neighboring residential glazing or elevated habitable areas by more than 2 footcandles or create direct glare. Tennis court lights must be off 10 PM-7 AM weekdays, 10 PM-8 AM weekends. LA County has a Rural Outdoor Lighting District for unincorporated areas.
View full Los Angeles rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena regulates outdoor lighting under PMC 17.40.080. Parking area lighting limited to 18 ft height and must be shielded to confine light to the parking area per PMC 17.46.220. No dedicated dark-sky ordinance, but light containment is required.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Light Limit | Max 2 footcandles at neighbor property | - |
| Direct Glare | Prohibited at residential windows | - |
| Code Section | LAMC 93.0117 | - |
| Sports Lights | Off 10 PM-7 AM (weekdays) | - |
| County ROLD | Applies to unincorporated areas only | - |
| Parking Lights | - | Max 18 ft height |
| Shielding | - | Required to confine light |
| Code Sections | - | PMC 17.40.080, 17.46.220 |
| Dark-Sky Ordinance | - | None specifically |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
What does fully shielded mean?
The fixture must direct all light downward with no light emitted above the horizontal plane. This prevents glare and sky glow while still providing ground illumination.
Can my neighbor's lights shine into my yard?
Most codes prohibit light trespass onto neighboring properties. Contact Los Angeles code enforcement if outdoor lights from adjacent properties create a nuisance.
Pasadena FAQ
What does fully shielded mean?
The fixture must direct all light downward with no light emitted above the horizontal plane. This prevents glare and sky glow while still providing ground illumination.
Can my neighbor's lights shine into my yard?
Most codes prohibit light trespass onto neighboring properties. Contact Pasadena code enforcement if outdoor lights from adjacent properties create a nuisance.
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