Fairfax, VA Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

The City of Fairfax is located in a densely developed area of Northern Virginia with significant ambient light from surrounding jurisdictions and does not have International Dark-Sky Association designation. However, the City's lighting ordinance reflects Dark Sky best practices: full-cutoff fixtures, downward-directed light, limits on illuminance spillover at property lines, and limits on pole heights. The ordinance does not currently mandate specific LED color temperatures (typically Dark Sky guidance recommends 3000K or warmer), but some newer development approvals incorporate warmer color temperatures as a condition. Astronomical observing conditions in Fairfax are limited by regional ambient light, so Dark Sky advocacy in Virginia typically focuses on more rural counties. Residents concerned about neighborhood light pollution can file complaints based on the light trespass standards in the ordinance. Virginia has no statewide Dark Sky law. HOAs may adopt Dark Sky style rules voluntarily. Public streetlights in Fairfax are gradually being converted to LED, and the City has engaged in public discussion about appropriate color temperatures for streetlight replacements. Historic district lighting has design review standards that often favor Dark Sky-compatible fixtures for aesthetic reasons.