Alhambra, CA Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

The City of Alhambra does not have a dedicated 'dark-sky' lighting ordinance of the kind found in rural or astronomy-focused communities, but it does regulate outdoor lighting and illumination through Section 23.12.090 of its Zoning Code (Chapter 23.12, General Site Regulations). Per that section, all lights must be directed, oriented, and shielded to prevent light trespass or glare onto adjacent properties, and the light level at the property line may not exceed 0.3 foot-candles. This functions as the City's primary lighting-control standard for new development and site improvements, addressing both spillover onto neighbors and glare visible from public streets. The lighting standards apply through the City's site-plan and design-review processes, so new commercial, multifamily, and certain residential projects must demonstrate that fixtures are shielded and aimed downward and that illumination is contained on-site. While the focus is on protecting neighboring properties rather than preserving the night sky for astronomy, shielding and downward orientation requirements do reduce skyglow. Because the section was amended through recent zoning updates (Ordinances 4823, 4831, and 4844), property owners and designers should reference the current code text and consult the Planning Division for project-specific lighting requirements. Excessive or unshielded lighting that spills onto neighbors may be addressed as light trespass under this same provision.