Galt requires exterior lighting on new commercial development to be shielded, downcast, and compliant with Title 24 outdoor lighting efficiency standards. Full dark-sky ordinance provisions are not adopted, but glare onto neighboring property is a nuisance.
Galt has not adopted a comprehensive International Dark-Sky Association ordinance, but exterior lighting is regulated through the zoning code site development standards and California Title 24 Part 6 outdoor lighting efficiency requirements. New commercial and multifamily development must use fully shielded, downcast fixtures with color temperature typically not exceeding 3000 Kelvin, and lighting zones (LZ) control maximum lumen outputs. Residential lighting is less regulated, but floodlights or security lights that cast direct glare onto adjacent homes violate general nuisance provisions of the municipal code. Design review for new projects evaluates photometric plans showing foot-candle levels at property lines, typically capped at 0.1 to 0.5 foot-candles depending on adjacent zoning. Galt is within a rural-to-suburban transition area of Sacramento County, and nearby farm uses benefit from reduced ambient lighting. Motion-activated security lights are encouraged over all-night floodlights. Parking lot lighting in retail centers must be extinguished or reduced within 30 minutes of closing except for safety minimums.
Light trespass complaints may be abated through code enforcement notices and fines starting at 100 dollars. Commercial development lighting must pass final inspection to obtain certificate of occupancy.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle dark sky rules.
See how Galt's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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