While Vienna does not have a full dark-sky ordinance, the zoning code limits sky glow and upward light spill. Commercial properties must use full-cutoff fixtures for parking areas, and excessive upward-directed lighting is treated as a nuisance, particularly near Wolf Trap National Park.
The Town of Vienna addresses light pollution primarily through performance standards in its zoning ordinance. Full-cutoff fixture requirements in non-residential districts mean that luminaires must emit zero candela at or above the horizontal plane of the fixture. This dramatically reduces sky glow. Residential uplighting is permitted but must be aimed so that the majority of light strikes the intended target (tree canopy, façade) and not the sky. Properties within or adjoining the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts scenic corridor face heightened scrutiny due to the park's interest in preserving its semi-dark evening setting for outdoor performances and wildlife. The Town encourages the use of warm-color LEDs (3000K or lower) for residential applications and prohibits laser or searchlight-type beams directed at the sky from private property. Enforcement occurs through complaint investigation by zoning and police.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Vienna, VA
Commercial noise in Vienna, including HVAC equipment, refrigeration units, delivery activity, and loading docks, is regulated through zoning conditions and t...
Vienna, VA
Vehicle noise in Vienna is regulated through both Town Code and Virginia state law. Modified exhaust systems, excessively loud stereos, and unnecessary horn ...
Vienna, VA
Construction and contractor work in Vienna is permitted Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and prohibited on Sundays and ...
Vienna, VA
The Town of Vienna restricts unreasonably loud, disturbing, or unnecessary noise at all hours under Chapter 13 of the Town Code, with enhanced nighttime rest...
Vienna, VA
Commercial vehicles over 12,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, tractor-trailers, and vehicles with commercial signage above specified sizes generally ca...
Vienna, VA
On-street parking in Vienna is generally allowed on residential streets unless signed otherwise. Vehicles may not be parked in the same spot on a public stre...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fairfax County.
See how other cities in Fairfax County handle light trespass.
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