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Maricopa County, AZ Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: https://www.maricopa.gov/2271/Ordinances-Regulations-and-Codes →

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Key Facts

Ordinance: MCZO Section 812 Dark Sky
Shielding: Required to prevent upward light emission
Purpose: Protect astronomical observations
Applicability: All new outdoor lighting in unincorporated areas

City-specific rules exist: Glendale, Chandler, Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Surprise, Goodyear, Tempe, Peoria, and Scottsdale have their own dark sky rules rules that differ from Maricopa County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Maricopa County has adopted a Dark Sky Ordinance incorporated into Section 812 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. The ordinance controls outdoor artificial lighting to reduce light pollution that impacts astronomical observations, conserve energy, and improve nighttime safety. Outdoor lighting must be shielded to prevent upward light emission. The ordinance is particularly important given proximity to astronomical observatories.

Full Breakdown

Maricopa County's outdoor lighting regulations are codified in Section 812 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance (MCZO). The Dark Sky Ordinance requires all outdoor lighting fixtures in unincorporated areas to be fully shielded, directing light downward to minimize sky glow, glare, and light trespass. Mercury vapor lighting is prohibited. The ordinance establishes maximum lumens per acre based on zoning district, with lower limits in rural and residential zones. Exemptions exist for temporary holiday lighting (up to 60 days), emergency lighting, and FAA-required aviation obstruction lights. The ordinance supports astronomical research at observatories accessible from the county and helps preserve the natural night sky in rural communities like Cave Creek and New River. Contact Maricopa County Planning and Development at (602) 506-3301 for lighting plan review and compliance questions.

Violations & Fines

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Maricopa County have dark sky lighting regulations?

Yes. The Maricopa County Outdoor Lighting Code (Chapter 7 of the MCZO) regulates outdoor lighting in unincorporated areas to reduce light pollution. It requires full-cutoff or shielded fixtures for most exterior lighting, limits total lumens per acre, and restricts upward-directed lighting to protect dark skies near observatories and natural areas.

What types of outdoor lights are prohibited in unincorporated Maricopa County?

Unshielded floodlights, searchlights, laser lights, and mercury vapor lamps are generally prohibited or restricted under the county outdoor lighting code. New installations must use full-cutoff fixtures that direct light downward. Existing non-conforming fixtures may be grandfathered but must be replaced with compliant fixtures when upgraded.

Are there special lighting zones in Maricopa County for dark sky protection?

Yes. Maricopa County designates lighting zones based on proximity to astronomical observatories and sensitive natural areas. Properties near the Fountain Hills and far northeast valley areas may fall under stricter lumen limits. The county's lighting standards are influenced by Arizona's statewide dark sky protections, among the strongest in the nation.

How does Maricopa County compare?

See how Maricopa County's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.

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Maricopa County, AZ Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

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