Here at TNT we get asked a lot about land use laws that fall under the Santa Monica Mountains Local Coastal Plan. One of the most frequent questions asked by our readers is about the issue of light pollution.
Thanks to its largely rural nature and its steep mountain terrain, Topanga still has remarkably dark skies for a neighborhood so close to Los Angeles Topanga, and activists have fought hard to retain the canyon’s starry skies.
Topanga is part of Los Angeles County’s Rural Outdoor Lighting District, with restrictions on the types of residential and commercial lighting that can be used. The goal is to “promote and maintain dark skies for the health and enjoyment of individuals and wildlife.”
The problem is that some residents may be unaware of the ordinance or may simply not care about the impact their lighting is having on the environment.
Topanga County Code 94, specifies that “Exterior lighting (except traffic lights, navigational lights, and other similar safety lighting) shall be minimized, restricted to low-intensity features, shielded, and cause no light to trespass into native habitat to minimize impacts on wildlife. Night lighting for development allowed in H2 or H3 habitat [special designations for environmentally sensitive areas] may be permitted when subject to the following standards:
a. The minimum lighting necessary shall be used to light walkways used for entry and exit to the structures, including parking areas, on the site. This lighting shall be limited to fixtures that do not exceed two feet in height, that are directed downward, and use bulbs that do not exceed 60 watts, or the equivalent. All other lighting of driveways or access roads is prohibited.
b. Security lighting shall be attached to the residence or permitted accessory structures that is controlled by motion detectors, and is limited to 60 watts, or the equivalent.
c. Night lighting for sports courts or other private recreational facilities shall be prohibited except for minimal lighting for equestrian facilities as provided for in CO- 103.
d. Lighting is prohibited around the perimeter of the parcel or for aesthetic purposes.
e. Prior to issuance of a CDP, the applicant shall be required to execute and record a deed restriction reflecting the above restrictions. Public agencies shall not be required to record a deed restriction, but may be required to submit a written statement agreeing to any applicable restrictions contained in this subsection.
The ordinance requires that exterior lighting fixtures direct light downward and away from the sky; angling lights in a way that prevents light from spilling onto adjacent properties; and turning exterior lights off by 10:00 p.m., unless they are controlled by a motion sensor. Subdued warm lighting is recommended, and all external night lighting should be “purposeful lighting:” needed for practical and essential uses.
More information on the Rural Outdoor Lighting District can be found at https://planning.lacounty.gov/long-range-planning/rold/
To report lighting violations in unincorporated Los Angeles County, email ZoningEnforcement@planning.lacounty.gov, call (213) 974-6453, or use The Works mobile app.
