Dark Sky Rules: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View has fewer restrictions than San Jose.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View requires shielded outdoor lighting for new commercial and multi-family developments to minimize glare and skyglow. Title 24 Part 6 lighting efficiency standards apply to all new construction.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose enforces a low-pressure sodium-preferred outdoor lighting ordinance to protect Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton. All new fixtures must be fully shielded, and color temperature is capped at 2700K in observatory-proximate zones. Non-essential lighting must extinguish by 11:00 PM.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Shielding requirement | Fully shielded downward | - |
| Residential spillover | 0.5 foot-candles max | - |
| Commercial spillover | 2.0 foot-candles max | - |
| Closing reduction | Within 30 minutes | - |
| Title 24 controls | LED with auto controls | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Are holiday lights regulated?
Temporary decorative holiday lighting is exempt from shielding requirements but should not shine directly into neighbor windows. Displays typically run November through January without restriction.
Can my neighbor install a bright floodlight?
Residential floodlights must not cast direct glare across property lines. Report persistent light trespass to Code Enforcement; shielding or motion sensors often resolve complaints.
San Jose FAQ
Do I need to replace existing lights?
Existing fixtures are grandfathered unless replaced. Permit applications for tenant improvement or remodel trigger full compliance review.
Are holiday lights exempt?
Yes. Seasonal decorative lighting is exempt November 15 to January 15 if pointed downward and not aimed at the sky.
What's the color temperature limit?
2700K in the Mount Hamilton Lighting Zone closest to Lick Observatory; 3000K elsewhere in San Jose.
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