Pittsburg, CA Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Pittsburg's outdoor lighting regulations are found in Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) and the California Energy Code (Title 24 Part 6) for commercial installations. Residential outdoor lighting must be shielded to prevent glare and light trespass onto adjacent properties. Fixtures should be directed downward, with light sources typically hidden from direct view beyond property lines. Commercial and parking lot lighting must use full-cutoff fixtures meeting Title 24 Part 6 requirements, which include maximum lumens per square foot, automatic shutoff, and backlight/uplight/glare ratings (BUG rating system) per the Illuminating Engineering Society. Pittsburg does not have a formal International Dark-Sky Association ordinance, but its standards align with general light pollution reduction principles. Light trespass (measurable light spilling onto neighboring residential properties) is considered a nuisance under California Civil Code §3479 and may be enforced as a code violation. Holiday lighting is exempt seasonally. LED color temperature is regulated for commercial applications under Title 24, typically limited to 3000K or warmer. Parking lot lighting must be extinguished or significantly dimmed one hour after business close. Streetlights are operated by PG&E or the city under standard municipal specifications. Residents with complaints about neighbor lighting should first attempt informal resolution, then contact Pittsburg Code Enforcement with documentation.