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.
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.
Enforced under Article 910; noncompliant fixtures causing spillover or exceeding height limits may be cited and must be shielded or corrected.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Washoe County, NV
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Washoe County, NV
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Washoe County, NV
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Washoe County, NV
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Washoe County, NV
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Washoe County, NV
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See how Washoe County's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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