Scottsdale has one of the most comprehensive outdoor lighting ordinances in the Phoenix metro area (Zoning Ordinance Sections 7.600-7.604). All exterior lighting must be designed to minimize glare, light trespass, and light pollution. Lights must be fully shielded/cutoff, with a maximum height of 16 feet. The Development Review Board reviews all lighting plans.
Scottsdale's outdoor lighting regulations (Zoning Ordinance Sections 7.600-7.604) are among the strictest in the Phoenix metro area, reflecting the city's commitment to preserving dark skies and desert character. Key requirements: all outdoor lights taller than 3 feet must be fully shielded and directed downward (full cutoff); no outdoor light may exceed 16 feet in height; lighting designs must follow Illumination Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) guidelines; light trespass onto neighboring properties is prohibited; and the Development Review Board (DRB) must approve all exterior lighting designs for commercial, multi-family, and subdivision projects. The ordinance requires that lighting 'reflect a balance for the lighting needs with the contextual ambient light level and surrounding nighttime characteristics of our community.' Lights under 3 feet must also have shields directing light downward. Energy conservation is an explicit goal. The ESLO overlay areas have the strictest lighting standards to protect the dark sky environment near the McDowell Mountains.
Non-compliant outdoor lighting must be modified or replaced. Code enforcement responds to complaints about light trespass and glare. DRB may deny permits for projects with non-compliant lighting plans.
Scottsdale, AZ
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Scottsdale, AZ
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Scottsdale, AZ
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Scottsdale, AZ
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Scottsdale, AZ
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Scottsdale, AZ
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle dark sky rules.
See how Scottsdale's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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