★ Protecting Our Dark Skies ★ Preserving Palomar Observatory ★ Serving Our Community ★

WHAT IS ORDINANCE 655?

Riverside County Ordinance 655, the Mount Palomar Light Pollution Ordinance, was adopted to protect Palomar Observatory — one of the world's premier astronomical research facilities — from the damaging effects of light pollution. It regulates how outdoor artificial lighting must be installed and used throughout unincorporated Riverside County and within approximately 45 miles of Palomar Observatory.

This ordinance does NOT require you to replace existing light fixtures — it applies to new installations and permitted remodels.

WHERE DOES IT APPLY?

ZONE A - Within 15 miles of Palomar Observatory

• Strictest lighting controls
• Lowest allowable color temperatures
• Includes portions of western Riverside County

ZONE B - 15 to 45 miles from Palomar Observatory (as the crow flies...the Santa Rosa Plateau is included!!)

• Includes: Murrieta, Temecula, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Hemet, Perris, Moreno Valley, Menifee & Anza
• All new outdoor fixtures must be fully shielded
• LEDs must be 3,000K color temperature or lower

THE THREE LIGHTING CLASSES

CLASS I - Color-Critical Uses

• Used for: Outdoor sales/dining areas, assembly or repair areas, outdoor advertising signs, recreational facilities
• Requirement: Full shielding; approved lamp types required

CLASS II - Functional / Security Uses

• Used for: Walkways, private roads & streets, parking lots, equipment yards, outdoor security lighting
• Requirement: Must be fully shielded; directed downward only

CLASS III - Decorative Uses

• Used for: Flagpoles, trees, fountains, statues, building walls
• Requirement: Must be shielded; OFF between 11 PM & sunrise

KEY RULES FOR HOMEOWNERS

• All NEW outdoor light fixtures must be fully shielded — light directed downward only, not into the sky
• LED lights must have a color temperature of 3,000K or lower (warm white / amber tones)
• Low-pressure sodium lamps remain an approved option for security lighting
• Decorative lighting (Class III) must be shut off between 11:00 PM and sunrise
• Building permits for new lighting require a photometric plan showing compliance
• Major remodels (over 50% of improvement value) may trigger retrofit requirements

EXEMPTIONS

• Low-pressure sodium security lighting on single-family homes is exempt from some restrictions
• Existing legally installed fixtures are NOT required to be replaced
• The Planning Director may approve equivalent alternate designs on a case-by-case basis
• Emergency lighting is not subject to curfew requirements

WHY IT MATTERS FOR OUR COMMUNITY

• Light pollution affects scientific research, wildlife habitats, energy consumption, and quality of life. This ordinance ensures Riverside County remains a responsible steward of our shared night sky.
• Palomar Observatory - Home to cutting-edge research; light pollution directly impacts scientific discovery
• Dark Skies for All - Reduced glare, better sleep, and beautiful starry nights for residents
• Energy Savings

TO REPORT A NEIGHBOR'S VIOLATION:

• Contact the Riverside County Code Enforcement; submit a form and follow up with a phone call (or several)
• Phone: (951) 955-2004
• Text: (760) 393-3344