Auburn, WA Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Outdoor lighting on private property in Auburn is regulated through design and performance standards in ACC Title 18. The city generally requires outdoor lighting fixtures to be full cutoff or shielded so that the light source is not directly visible from adjacent residential properties or public rights-of-way. Lighting must be aimed downward, limited in height, and designed to avoid light trespass beyond the property line. Commercial and mixed-use zones have more detailed photometric submittal requirements during design review, with maximum illumination levels at property boundaries adjacent to residential uses. Building permit applicants for new or expanded commercial sites typically submit a lighting plan showing pole heights, fixture types, color temperature, and photometric calculations. Residential standards are less prescriptive but still prohibit nuisance lighting that interferes with neighbors or motorists along Auburn Way, Lea Hill Road, and other residential collectors. Industrial sites along SR-167 and near the Boeing plant have their own standards to limit spillover onto adjoining residential neighborhoods. Shoreline properties on the Green River should additionally minimize over-water lighting to protect salmon habitat and migrating waterfowl under shoreline regulations. Code enforcement may require owners to aim, shield, or time outdoor fixtures if complaints are substantiated. Auburn Community Development at (253) 931-3090 can provide lighting plan checklists.