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

The City of Reedley has not adopted a dedicated dark sky ordinance similar to those found in communities near observatories or designated dark sky areas. Outdoor lighting is addressed through the city's zoning code development standards (Title 10) and general nuisance provisions (Title 4). New commercial, industrial, and multifamily development projects are subject to site plan review, which includes evaluation of proposed exterior lighting to ensure it does not create adverse impacts on neighboring properties. Lighting for parking lots, building facades, and site security on commercial developments is generally required to be directed downward and shielded to minimize glare and light spillover. California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6) set baseline requirements for outdoor lighting power density and controls on all new construction, including automatic shutoff and dimming capabilities for certain outdoor luminaires. These state standards apply within Reedley regardless of local ordinance. Agricultural operations adjacent to the city may use security and operational lighting with fewer restrictions. For residential properties, the city's property nuisance provisions under Section 4-2-3 may apply if lighting creates conditions that are materially detrimental to nearby properties, though enforcement is complaint-driven rather than proactive.