Dark Sky Rules: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Rockville and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Rockville regulates outdoor lighting through its zoning ordinance to minimize light pollution and glare. New commercial and multifamily developments must use fully shielded fixtures that direct light downward. Residential outdoor lighting must not create glare that interferes with neighboring properties or public roadways.
View full Rockville rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Chapter 59 requires all new exterior lighting to be full-cutoff fixtures. Light trespass limited to 0.5 foot-candles at residential property lines.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Shielding Required | Full-cutoff for commercial and multifamily | - |
| Property Line Limit | 0.5 footcandles maximum | - |
| Parking Lot Height | Typically 25 ft max per site plan | - |
| Standalone Dark Sky Law | No, but standards in zoning code | - |
| Planning Dept | 240-314-8200 | - |
| Fixture Type | - | Full-cutoff (fully shielded) required |
| Max Height (Residential) | - | 15 feet |
| Light Trespass Limit | - | 0.5 foot-candles at property line |
| Code | - | Chapter 59, Division 6.4 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rockville FAQ
Does Rockville have a dark sky ordinance?
Rockville does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance, but the zoning code requires fully shielded fixtures for commercial and multifamily developments. Lighting at property boundaries is limited to 0.5 footcandles.
Can my neighbor's floodlight shine onto my property?
Residential lighting that creates unreasonable glare on neighboring parcels may violate nuisance standards. You can file a complaint with Code Enforcement at 240-314-8530.
Do HOAs have lighting rules in Rockville?
Many HOA communities in Rockville have architectural guidelines specifying fixture types, color temperatures, and brightness limits. Check your community's covenants and design standards.
Takoma Park FAQ
Does Montgomery County have dark sky lighting rules?
Yes. All new exterior lighting must use full-cutoff fixtures that direct light downward. The Agricultural Reserve zone has stricter requirements. Light trespass at residential property lines must not exceed 0.5 foot-candles.
Do I need to replace my existing outdoor lights?
Existing fixtures are grandfathered. However, when you replace or renovate outdoor lighting, new fixtures must comply with the full-cutoff shielding standard.
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