Dark Sky Rules: Los Angeles vs Santa Clarita
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Clarita, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Clarita have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles Municipal Code §93.0108 caps new outdoor LED fixtures at 3000K, requires full shielding, and limits trespass to 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines. The ordinance applies citywide to new installations, replacements, and permitted remodels but exempts pre-existing fixtures and emergency lighting.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Clarita, CA
Los Angeles County
SCMC 17.51.050 requires all light sources to be directed downward and shielded. Lighting must not spill over to adjacent properties or create glare.
View full Santa Clarita rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Clarita |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Shielding | - | Required — downward directed |
| Spillover | - | Prohibited to adjacent properties |
| Glare | - | No direct glare permitted |
| Code Section | - | SCMC 17.51.050 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need to replace my existing lights?
No. Pre-existing fixtures are grandfathered. Replacements, new permits, and tenant improvements that touch the electrical system must comply with §93.0108.
Are holiday lights exempt?
Yes. Temporary seasonal lighting is exempt November 15 to January 15 if pointed downward.
What color temperature is allowed?
New outdoor LEDs are capped at 3000K. Warm-white 2700K is recommended for hillside and residential areas.
Santa Clarita 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 Santa Clarita code enforcement if outdoor lights from adjacent properties create a nuisance.
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