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πŸ’‘ Outdoor Lighting/Dark Sky Rules

Palmdale vs Pasadena

How do dark sky rules rules compare between Palmdale, CA and Pasadena, CA?

Palmdale and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.

Palmdale, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Palmdale regulates outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution and glare. Fully shielded fixtures required for new installations. Lighting must be directed downward and not trespass onto neighboring properties.

View full Palmdale rules β†’

Pasadena, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

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 β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactPalmdalePasadena
FixturesFully shielded required-
DirectionDownward only-
Color Temp3000K or below preferred-
TopicDark Sky Rules-
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.

Palmdale 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 Palmdale 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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