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Outdoor Lighting in Contra Costa County, CA (2026)

1 county-level rule, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Contra Costa County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Light Trespass & Shielding

Off-street parking areas in non-residential zoning districts across unincorporated Contra Costa County must aim lighting downward and away from adjacent properties, streets, and rights-of-way to prevent glare and light spill-over past the property line, under Ordinance Code Section 82-16.404(a)(8). Fixture intensity is capped at what safety actually requires, protecting neighboring residential privacy.

Contra Costa County Parking Lot Light Trespass Rule

Some Restrictions

Contra Costa County Ordinance Code § 82-16.404(a)(8) (Off-Street Parking, Design and Layout - Lighting)

(8)Lighting. For safety and security, each parking area in a non-residential zoning district (any zoning district other than a R-, D-1 or M- district) must include lighting that adequately illuminates the parking area. Lighting must be directed downward and away from adjacent areas and public streets and rights-of-way, to prevent glare (overwhelming direct light creating a potential hazard), or...

Outdoor Lighting by City in Contra Costa County

3 cities in Contra Costa County have their own outdoor lighting rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.

All Contra Costa County ordinances

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