Des Moines regulates outdoor lighting through Chapter 134 (Zoning) general requirements, prohibiting glare that impacts neighboring properties, but has not adopted a formal dark sky or International Dark-Sky Association ordinance with color-temperature or curfew rules.
Chapter 134 (Zoning Ordinance No. 15,816), Article IV — General Requirements, contains provisions requiring that exterior lighting be directed away from adjacent residential properties and public rights-of-way to prevent glare. Fixtures serving parking lots and commercial uses must be shielded so that light is contained on the subject property. Chapter 135 (Planning and Design) site design standards reinforce these controls for new development. No curfew, color-temperature (CCT) limits, or lumens-per-acre caps have been enacted. Des Moines is not listed as a DarkSky International–recognized municipality. Light nuisance complaints may also be addressed under Chapter 42, Article V (Nuisances).
Lighting violations are treated as zoning code infractions; enforcement by Zoning Enforcement Division; civil penalties apply after notice and opportunity to cure.
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