Johnson County, IA Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Aim
- Downward, 45 degrees max
- Fixtures
- Hooded, bulbs shielded
- Max mount height
- 30 feet
- Flashing lights
- Prohibited
- Rec-field lights off
- By 11 p.m.
Summary
Johnson County's UDO includes real Downcast Lighting Regulations for unincorporated land. Outdoor fixtures must be hooded, aimed downward no more than 45 degrees from vertical, and mounted no higher than 30 feet, with no flickering or flashing lights.
No light fixture shall be mounted any higher than thirty (30) feet above the highest established grade of any road abutting the property. ... All light figures shall be aimed downward at no more than a forty-five (45) degree angle from vertical. ... All lighting shall be hooded to reduce sky-glow.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
The county's Downcast Lighting Regulations (UDO 8:1.25) require all outdoor light on a property to be designed so it does not extend beyond the property boundaries. Fixtures must aim downward at no more than a 45-degree angle from vertical, be hooded to cut sky-glow, and keep bulbs shielded from neighbors and the road. No fixture may sit higher than 30 feet above the abutting road's grade, and flickering or flashing lights are barred. Lighting for pools and private courts must shut off by 11 p.m. Airport navigation lighting, FAA-required tower lighting, public street lighting, and seasonal decorations are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant fixtures must be corrected to meet the downcast standards before the zoning certificate is finalized. The Board of Adjustment handles requests to deviate, and unresolved violations run through the county's zoning enforcement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Johnson County regulate outdoor lighting?
Are any lights exempt?
Sources & Official References
- [1]Iowa Code
Other rules in Johnson County
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