Dark Sky Rules: Mountain View vs Santa Clara
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Santa Clara, CA?
Mountain View and Santa Clara have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara zoning requires shielded outdoor lighting to prevent glare and skyglow, with specific controls for commercial properties near residential zones.
View full Santa Clara rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Santa Clara |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Governing Code | - | SCCC Title 18 zoning regulations |
| Shielding | - | Downward-directed fixtures required |
| Property Line | - | Typically 0.5 foot-candles max at residential boundary |
| State Law | - | Title 24 Part 6 energy caps apply |
| Contact | - | Planning Division (408) 615-2450 |
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.
Santa Clara FAQ
Are string lights in my backyard regulated?
Decorative residential lighting is generally allowed as long as it does not shine directly onto neighbors windows or create glare hazards.
Does Santa Clara have a dark sky ordinance?
Not a dedicated IDA-modeled ordinance, but shielding and spillover requirements apply through zoning review.
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