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πŸ’‘ Outdoor Lighting/Security Light Shielding

Palmdale vs Torrance

How do security light shielding rules compare between Palmdale, CA and Torrance, CA?

Palmdale and Torrance have similar restriction levels.

Palmdale, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Title 22.140.385 of the LA County Code requires residential and commercial security lighting in unincorporated areas to use full cutoff shields aimed downward, capping property-line spill at 0.5 foot-candles and prohibiting glare onto neighboring dwellings or public ways.

View full Palmdale rules β†’

Torrance, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Title 22.140.385 of the LA County Code requires residential and commercial security lighting in unincorporated areas to use full cutoff shields aimed downward, capping property-line spill at 0.5 foot-candles and prohibiting glare onto neighboring dwellings or public ways.

View full Torrance rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactPalmdaleTorrance
Fixture standardFull cutoff, fully shieldedFull cutoff, fully shielded
Property line cap0.5 foot-candles residential0.5 foot-candles residential
Hillside cap0.1 foot-candles stricter0.1 foot-candles stricter
Motion lightsOff within ten minutesOff within ten minutes
EnforcementCode Enforcement, complaint-basedCode Enforcement, complaint-based

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Palmdale FAQ

My neighbor's security light shines into my bedroom. What can I do?

File a written light-trespass complaint with LA County Code Enforcement under Title 22.140.385. Inspectors measure spill at the property line and order the neighbor to add shielding or redirect the fixture.

Can I install motion-activated floodlights at my home?

Yes, with proper shielding and downward aim. The fixture must be full cutoff, the spill at the property line cannot exceed 0.5 foot-candles, and the light must shut off within ten minutes of motion ceasing.

Torrance FAQ

My neighbor's security light shines into my bedroom. What can I do?

File a written light-trespass complaint with LA County Code Enforcement under Title 22.140.385. Inspectors measure spill at the property line and order the neighbor to add shielding or redirect the fixture.

Can I install motion-activated floodlights at my home?

Yes, with proper shielding and downward aim. The fixture must be full cutoff, the spill at the property line cannot exceed 0.5 foot-candles, and the light must shut off within ten minutes of motion ceasing.

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