Cleveland does not have a comprehensive dark-sky ordinance. The city's lighting regulations primarily address safety and nuisance issues rather than light pollution reduction. New commercial and multi-family development may have lighting standards in the zoning code, but residential properties have minimal dark-sky requirements.
Cleveland's zoning code includes some lighting provisions for commercial and multi-family developments, requiring shielded fixtures in certain districts. However, the city does not have a standalone dark-sky ordinance like those adopted by International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) communities. Ohio has no statewide dark-sky legislation.
Lighting that constitutes a nuisance under the general nuisance provisions of the Codified Ordinances may be subject to code enforcement action.
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland has no city ordinance restricting residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations. Cleveland Codified Ordinances Chapter 209 (Prope...
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, anchoring, lighting hours, and blower-motor noise are governed by H...
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland has no municipal ordinance regulating holiday lighting timing, brightness, or animation. Holiday displays are governed by HOA and condo association...
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland requires building permits for built-in outdoor kitchens that include gas piping, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs. Freestanding por...
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland has no specific city ordinance restricting residential smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Persistent severe smoke could be addressed unde...
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland follows the Ohio Fire Code (OAC 1301:7-7), which incorporates the IFC. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containe...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cuyahoga County.
See how other cities in Cuyahoga County handle dark sky rules.
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