Maple Grove, MN Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Maple Grove regulates outdoor lighting through the glare and lighting performance standards of its zoning ordinance, Section 36-793. The code requires that any lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking area, sign, or other structure be arranged so as to deflect light away from any adjoining residential zone and from public streets. The ordinance also prohibits bare incandescent light bulbs from being visible from adjacent properties or rights-of-way and restricts direct or sky-reflected glare, whether from floodlights or high-temperature processes such as combustion or welding, from being directed onto adjoining property. Maple Grove does not advertise a formal International Dark-Sky ordinance, but these glare-control and shielding requirements function as the city's light-pollution and nuisance-lighting standard. The practical effect for homeowners and businesses is that exterior fixtures should be shielded or hooded and aimed downward so the light source itself is not glaring into a neighbor's yard, windows, or the street. The code also sets numeric limits on light cast onto streets and residential property (see Maple Grove light trespass). For specifics, contact Community & Economic Development at 763-494-6040.