Outdoor Lighting in Sandoval County, NM (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Sandoval County, New Mexico.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
For non-residential development in the La Cueva Design Overlay Zone, Sandoval County's zoning code requires every outdoor light fixture to be shielded, focused downward and capped at 16 feet in height, with Section 9(2.5)(C)(7) giving owners of existing non-conforming fixtures two years to bring them into compliance.
Sandoval County Outdoor Light Fixture Shielding Rules
Some RestrictionsSandoval County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance § 9(2.5)(C)(7)
Outdoor light fixtures shall comply with the following:a.Fixtures shall be shielded such that light rays emitted by the fixture are projected at 45 degrees from a point on the fixture where light is emitted.b.Where used for security purposes, or to illuminate walkways, equipment yards and parking lots, only shielded outdoor light fixtures shall be utilized.c.Fixtures shall be required to have a...
Light Trespass & Shielding
New non-residential lighting in the La Cueva Design Overlay Zone can't spill past the property line. Section 9(2.5)(C)(7)(d) requires exterior lighting to be shielded so emitted light is confined within the boundary of the property where it originates.
Sandoval County Light Trespass Containment Rule
Some RestrictionsSandoval County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance § 9(2.5)(C)(7)(d),(f)
d.Exterior lighting shall be shielded in such a manner as to confine emitted light within the boundary of the property from which it originated...f.Any illuminated on-premise advertising sign shall be turned off between 11:00 P.M. and sunrise except that on-premise signs may remain illuminated while a business is open to the public.
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