Ojai has a strong dark sky ordinance regulating outdoor lighting to preserve the night sky and the valley's rural character. All exterior fixtures must be fully shielded (full cutoff). Maximum color temperature is 3000K (warm white). Mercury vapor and unshielded floodlights are prohibited.
Ojai's outdoor lighting ordinance is among the strictest in California, reflecting the community's commitment to preserving the night sky. All exterior lighting must use fully shielded (full cutoff) fixtures that direct light downward with no upward component. Maximum correlated color temperature is 3000K (warm white). Mercury vapor and high-pressure sodium fixtures are prohibited for new installations. Existing non-conforming fixtures must be upgraded at the time of property sale or remodel. Residential security lighting must use motion sensors and may not exceed 60 watts (equivalent). Commercial signage illumination must be top-mounted and shielded. The city coordinates with the Ojai Valley Observatory and astronomy community.
Non-compliant fixture: written notice with 60-day compliance period. New installations violating the ordinance: permit will not be approved. Persistent violations: fines of $100-$500.
Ojai, CA
Ojai enforces strict decibel limits to protect the peaceful valley environment. Residential noise standards are among the more restrictive in Ventura County.
Ojai, CA
Ojai's noise ordinance prohibits racing engines, unnecessary idling for more than 10 minutes, and intentional tire screeching. CA Vehicle Code §27007 (95 dBA...
Ojai, CA
Ojai regulates noise under OMC Chapter 7-6, incorporating Ventura County noise standards. Residential nighttime noise must not exceed 45 dBA at the property ...
Ojai, CA
Amplified music in Ojai is governed by the general noise ordinance (OMC Chapter 7-6). Outdoor amplified music requires a special event permit if audible beyo...
Ojai, CA
Nuisance barking violates Ojai's noise ordinance (OMC Title 5, Chapter 11). Police may charge property owners for law enforcement costs after the first respo...
Ojai, CA
CVC §22651 limits vehicles to 72 hours on public streets. Ojai enforces parking through the Ventura County Sheriff's Department. The small downtown area has ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Ventura County.
See how other cities in Ventura County handle dark sky rules.
See how Ojai's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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