Washoe County, NV Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Spillover onto neighbors
- Must be prevented
- Fixture covers
- Required on all lights
- Height near residential
- 12 ft max (within 100 ft)
- Rotating searchlights
- Permanently prohibited
- Design goal
- Replicate natural light
Summary
All outdoor light sources must be installed to prevent spillover onto adjoining properties and reflect light away from them. Lighting near residential zones is height-limited, and permanent rotating searchlights are banned.
All light sources shall be located and installed in such a way as to prevent spillover lighting onto adjoining properties... Any lighting facilities shall be so installed as to reflect away from adjoining properties. Covers must be installed on all lighting fixtures and lamps must not extend below the bottom of the cover.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 20 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
In Nevada's dark-sky country, Washoe County's Light and Glare standard (WCC 110.414.21) requires all light sources to be located and installed to prevent spillover lighting onto adjoining properties, applying to existing and proposed development. Lighting facilities must reflect away from adjoining properties, with covers installed on all fixtures so lamps don't extend below the cover bottom. Light standards within 100 feet of residential zones cannot exceed 12 feet in height unless the Director approves sharp-cutoff lighting. Permanent rotating searchlights are prohibited in every regulatory zone (a temporary searchlight needs an administrative permit, max 3 days, 3 times a year). Lighting design should replicate natural light as much as possible. These standards apply to unincorporated Washoe County.
Violations & Fines
Enforced under Article 910; noncompliant fixtures causing spillover or exceeding height limits may be cited and must be shielded or corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do my outdoor lights have to be shielded?
How tall can a light pole be near homes?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Washoe County
Compare Washoe County to another location·View the Nevada outdoor lighting overview
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