Fresno County does not currently enforce a comprehensive dark-sky ordinance, but exterior lighting in rural and agricultural zones must be shielded to prevent glare and light trespass onto adjacent properties and roadways under Title 18.
While the county lacks a formal IDA-style dark-sky ordinance countywide, the Zoning Ordinance requires exterior lighting to be designed and shielded so that the light source is not directly visible from adjoining property or public rights-of-way. New development permits typically require a photometric plan demonstrating compliance. Sierra foothill communities near Sequoia–Kings Canyon NP and the Sierra National Forest emphasize lighting sensitivity. Title 24 Part 6 (Outdoor Lighting) sets backstop energy and shielding standards for nonresidential exterior lighting.
Non-shielded fixtures on new construction: failed inspection, replacement required. Existing nuisance lighting: code enforcement citation if proven light trespass.
Fresno County, CA
Unincorporated Fresno County limits construction noise to 7 AM-7 PM weekdays and 8 AM-5 PM Saturdays per Title 11. No Sunday/holiday construction without per...
Fresno County, CA
California Health & Safety Code §115920-115929 (Swimming Pool Safety Act) requires a 60-inch barrier with self-closing/self-latching gate AND at least one ad...
Fresno County, CA
Beekeeping is broadly permitted in Fresno County's agricultural and rural zones with apiary registration under CA Food & Ag Code §29040. Commercial beekeeper...
Fresno County, CA
Eastern Fresno County foothills are designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) by CAL FIRE. New construction in SRA/VHFHSZ must comply with CA ...
Fresno County, CA
Fresno Irrigation District and local water purveyors set watering schedules. Statewide non-functional turf irrigation with potable water is banned for commer...
Fresno County, CA
Setbacks by zone per Fresno County Title 18: R-1 (20 ft front, 5 ft side, 10 ft rear); AE (50 ft front, 30 ft side/rear); RR/RE (35 ft front, 15 ft side, 25 ...
See how Fresno County's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.