Pima County / City of Tucson

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 1 of 21

Ordinance 2024 Exhibit ?

2024 City of Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Administration ……….………………………………….………… 2

Section

101 Title, Scope and Purpose

102 Applicability

103 Exemptions

104 Permits and Plan Submission Requirements

105 Prohibitions

106 Inspections

107 Violations

Chapter 2 Definitions …………………………………………………………… 7

Section

201 General

202 Defined Terms

Chapter 3 Lighting Areas ………………………………………….….……….. 9

Section

1. Description of Lighting Areas

Chapter 4 Illumination Levels and Shielding Requirements …………..….…. 11

Section

401 Total Outdoor Light Output and Shielding Requirements

Table 401.1 - Maximum Total Outdoor Light Output Requirements

402 Outdoor Lighting Source Color Temperature

403 Curfew Requirements

404 Motion Sensing Controls

Chapter 5 Sign Lighting …………………………………………………….….. 14

Section

501 Illuminated Outdoor Signs

Table 501.5 – Illuminated Sign Curfews

Chapter 6 Recreational Facilities ……...…………………………….…....……. 15

Section

601 Illumination of Recreational Facilities

Table 601.3 Recreational Facilities and Special Use Areas Curfews

Chapter 7 Special Use Areas ……………………………………………………. 16

Section

701 Illumination of Special Use Areas

Chapter 8 Right-of-Ways ………………………...…….………………..……… 17

Section

801 Illumination of Right-of-Ways

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Chapter 1

Administration

Section 101

Title, Scope and Purpose

101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Outdoor Lighting Code for The City of Tucson, Arizona

and Pima County Arizona. They shall be cited as such and will be referred to herein as “this code”.

101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement,

replacement and installation of outdoor lighting throughout the City of Tucson, Arizona and Pima County,

Arizona.

101.3 Purpose and intent. The purpose of this code is to preserve the relationship of the residents of the City of

Tucson, Arizona and Pima County, Arizona to their unique desert environment through protection of access to

the dark night sky. Intended outcomes include continuing support of astronomical activity and minimizing

wasted energy, while not compromising the safety, security, and well being of persons engaged in outdoor night

time activities. It is the intent of this code to control the obtrusive aspects of excessive and careless outdoor

lighting usage while preserving, protecting, and enhancing the lawful nighttime use and enjoyment of any and

all property. All light should have a clear purpose, be directed only where it is needed, and no brighter than

necessary. It is recognized that developed portions of properties may be required to be unlit, covered, or have

reduced lighting levels in order to allow enough lumens in the lighted areas to achieve light levels in accordance

with nationally recognized recommended practices.

101.4 Conformance with codes. All outdoor illuminating devices shall be installed in conformance with the

provisions of this code, the building code, the electrical code and the sign code of the authorizing jurisdiction as

applicable and under appropriate permit and inspection.

Section 102

Applicability

102.1 General. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods

of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between the

general requirements and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable.

102.2 Other laws. Where any provision of federal, state, county, or city statutes, codes or laws conflicts with

any provision of this code, the most restrictive shall govern unless otherwise regulated by law.

102.3 Partial invalidity. If any of the provisions of this code or the application thereof is held invalid, such

invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this code which can be given effect, and to this end,

the provisions of this code are declared to be severable.

102.4 Application of code. The requirements of this code apply to all new construction, additions and

alterations to land uses, developments, buildings, structures or light fixtures.

102.4.1 If a major addition occurs on a property, the entire property including legal, non-conforming

lighting shall be brought into compliance with the requirements of this code. For purposes of this

section, the following are considered to be major additions:

1. Additions of 25 percent or more to any site, whether commercial or residential, in terms of

additional dwelling units, gross floor area, seating capacity, or parking spaces, either with a single

addition or with cumulative additions subsequent to the effective date of this provision.

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2. Additions, modification or replacement of outdoor lighting fixtures legally installed constituting

25 percent or more of the actual lumens for the property, no matter the actual amount of lighting

already on a non-conforming site, constitutes a major addition for

purposes of this section. Where

existing outdoor lighting is modified or replaced and the

resulting lighting fixture has a less lumen

capacity than the previously existing fixture, the lumen capacity of the modified or replaced

fixture shall not be included in the lumen calculations for determining a major addition, but the

total of non-conforming lighting shall not be increased.

3. For additions, modifications or replacements of less than 25% refer to Section 102.4.2.

102.4.2 Additions or modifications less than 25 percent to existing uses or lighting shall require a

submission of a complete inventory and site plan detailing all existing and any proposed new outdoor

lighting. Any new lighting on the site shall meet the requirements of this code with regard to shielding

and lamp type; the total amount of lighting after the modifications are complete shall not exceed that

on the site before the modifications, or that permitted by this code, whichever is larger.

Exception to 102.4.2:

Exception 1: On existing lighted properties or developments of 5 acres and larger in Lighting Areas

E3, E3a and E2 where the quantity and ratings of existing lighting is unknown , not more than 3 full

cut-off luminaires, rated 2,000 lumens or less each, may be installed per permit without submission of

an inventory and site plan of existing outdoor lighting or preparation of lumen cap calculations. Not

more than 10 such full cut-off luminaries may be installed per this exception.

Exception 2: A complete inventory and site plan detailing all existing and proposed new lighting shall

not be required if a new existing lighting on the addition is documented as follows:

1. Submit a plan showing the developed area of the proposed addition This is to include the

entire building and site area where new work or alteration being done on this permit.

2. Show all new and existing lighting intended to remain within the developed area.

3. All new lighting and all remaining existing lighting within this developed area shall be full-

cut-off type.

4. Any existing non-full cut-off lighting within this developed area shall be removed.

5. The outdoor lighting with this developed area shall comply with the requirements of Chapter

Exception 3: Complete inventory and site plan detailing all existing and proposed new lighting shall

not be required if all new lighting is full cut-off type and installed under a canopy.

102.5 Change of use. Whenever the use of any existing building, structure, or premises is changed to a new

use, all outdoor lighting shall be reviewed and brought into compliance with this code before the new use

commences.

102.6 Resumption of use after abandonment. If a property or use with non-conforming lighting is abandoned

as defined in Chapter 2 of this code, then all outdoor lighting shall be reviewed and brought into compliance

with this code before the use is resumed.

102.7 Destruction or deterioration. If a property or use with non-conforming lighting is destroyed by

unforeseeable circumstances, or an act of nature or deteriorates to the point it is no longer safely or functionally

usable in its current state as defined by Chapter 2 of this code, then all outdoor lighting shall be review and

brought into compliance with this code before use is resumed. This agreement shall not supersede the

requirements set forth in 102.4.2

102.8 Alternate materials and methods of construction. The provisions of this code are not intended to

prevent the use of any design, materials or method of installation or operation not specifically prescribed by this

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code, provided any such alternate has been approved. The Building Official may approve any such proposed

alternate provided he or she finds that it:

1. Provides at least approximate equivalence to the applicable specific requirements of this code,

and;

2. Is otherwise satisfactory or complies with the intent of this code, and;

3. Has been designed or approved by a registered lighting or electrical engineer and is supported by

calculations showing that the design submitted meets that intent of the code. This sub-section shall

not have the effect of waiving the lumen caps of Chapter 4 of this code.

102.9 Appeals. Any person substantially aggrieved by any decision of the Building Official made in

administration of this code has the right and responsibilities of appeal to the Advisory/Appeals Board of this

jurisdiction.

Section 103

Exemptions

103.1 Natural gas lighting. Natural gas lighting is exempt from all requirements of this code.

103.2 Temporary exemption. Any person may submit a written request, on a form prepared by the jurisdiction,

to the jurisdiction for temporary exemption request. A temporary exemption shall contain the following

information:

1. Specific exemption(s) requested.

2. Type and use of outdoor light fixture involved.

3. Duration of time of the requested exemption.

4. Type of lamp and lamp lumens.

5. Total wattage of lamp or lamps and number of lamps to be used.

6. Proposed location on premises of the outdoor lighting fixture(s).

7. Previous temporary exemptions, if any, and addresses of premises there under.

8. Physical size of outdoor light fixture(s) and type of shielding provided.

9. Other data and information that may be required by the Building Official.

103.2.1 Approval and duration. The jurisdiction shall have five business days from the date of

submission of the request for temporary exemption to act, in writing, on the request. If approved, the

exemption shall be valid for not more than thirty days from the date of issuance of the approval. The

approval shall be renewable at the discretion of the Building Official upon consideration of all the

circumstances. Each such renewed exemption shall be valid for not more than thirty additional days.

103.2.2 Disapproval and appeal. If the request for temporary exemption is disapproved, the person

making the request will have the appeal rights provided in Section 102 of this code.

103.3 Historic Landmark Signs. Lighting for signs listed in the City of Tucson Historic Landmark Sign

Registry are exempt from this code except for Section 403 Curfew Requirements.

Section 104

Permits and Plan Submission Requirements

104.1 Permits required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends to install, construct, enlarge, alter, repair,

move, or change any outdoor lighting within Pima County jurisdiction, the installation of which is regulated by

this code, shall first make application to the Building Official for Pima County and obtain the required permit.

104.2 Permit submission requirements. The applicant for any permit required by any provision of the laws of

this jurisdiction in connection with proposed work involving outdoor lighting fixtures shall submit (as part of

the application for permit) evidence that the proposed work will comply with this code. The submission shall

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contain but shall not necessarily be limited to the following, all or part of which may be part or in addition to

the information required elsewhere in the laws of this jurisdiction upon application for the required permit:

1. Plans indicating the location on the premises, and the type of illuminating devices, fixtures, lamps,

supports, reflectors, and other devices, and a luminaire schedule as outlined in sub-section 104.2.1.

2. Description of the illuminating devices, fixtures, lamps, supports, reflectors, and other devices and

the description may include, but is not limited to, catalog cut sheets by manufacturers and

drawings (including sections where required).

3. Photometric data, such as that furnished by manufacturers, or similar showing the angle of cutoff

or light emissions. Photometric data need not be submitted when the full cutoff performance of the

fixture is obvious to the reviewing official.

Exception: When submittal includes a statement by a registered design professional that the

design is in accordance with this code, the requirements of sub-sections 104.2.2 and 104.2.3 shall

not apply.

104.2.1 Lumen calculation on plans. There shall be documentation on the plans to demonstrate

compliance with the lumen cap per Table 401.1, and which includes the following information:

1. Each exterior luminaire type with the lumens for that type, the quantity of each type and whether

the luminaire is full cut-off or unshielded/non-full cutoff.

2. The total of full cutoff and unshielded/non-full cutoff lumens for the developed area of a parcel.

3. A statement of the lighting area, the size of the permitted parcel, and the maximum allowed full

cut-off and unshielded/non-full-cutoff lumens.

Exception to 104.2.1: In Lighting Areas E3, E3a and E2, when the total outdoor lighting

installation is full cut-off lighting installed under canopies, roof overhangs or eaves, Lumen

Calculation shall not be required.

104.2.2 Special inspection note. The plan submission shall contain a note indicating whether special

inspection is required in accordance with Section 106.

104.2.3 Additional submission. The above required plans, descriptions and data shall be sufficiently

complete to enable the plans examiner to readily determine compliance with the requirements of this

code. If such plans, descriptions and data cannot enable this determination, the applicant shall

additionally submit as evidence of compliance such reports or tests as will, provided that these tests

shall have been performed and certified by a recognized testing agency.

104.3 Lamp or fixture substitution. Should any outdoor light fixture or the type of light source herein be

changed after the permit has been issued, a change request must be submitted to the design professional and

Building Official for his or her approval, together with adequate information to assure compliance with this

code, which must be received prior to substitution.

Section 105

Prohibitions

105.1 Bottom mounted sign lighting. Bottom mounted outdoor sign lighting attached to the sign structure is

prohibited.

105.2 Mercury vapor lamps and fixtures. The use installation, sale, offer for sale, lease or purchase of any

mercury vapor lamp for use as outdoor lighting is prohibited per ARS § 49-1104.

105.3 Laser source light. The use of laser source light or any similar high intensity light for outdoor

advertising or entertainment, when projected above the horizontal, is prohibited.

105.4 Searchlights. The operation of searchlights for advertising purposes is prohibited.

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Section 106

Inspections

106.1 General. The owner of a property, or the authorized agent of the owner, shall request all required

inspections as noted on the permit issued under this code. All inspection requests shall be made at appropriate

intervals as noted on the permit and it is the responsibility of the property owner or authorized agent of the

owner to assure that all required inspections receive approval from the Building Official and that final

inspection approval is obtained prior to placing the permitted outdoor lighting into service. Lumens in this

section are total installed lumens prior to any lumen reduction per 104.2.1.

106.2 Special inspection requirement.

106.2.1 Special inspection shall be required when the lumens per net acre are greater than 100,000 or

75% of the allowable lumens per Table 401.1, whichever is less.

106.2.2 Provide special inspection for all Recreational Facility lighting.

106.2.3 Provide special inspection for all Special Uses per Chapter 7.

Section 107

Violations

107.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend,

repair, move, remove, install, use or demolish outdoor lighting equipment as regulated by this code, or cause

same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.

107.2 Notice of violation The Building Official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the

person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removing, demolition or

use of any outdoor lighting in violation of this code or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved

hereunder, or in violation of a permit issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the

discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation. The property owner or

authorized agent of the owner shall comply with the requirements of the notice of violation within the time

period given on the notice for abatement of the violation.

107.3 Prosecution of violations. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the Building Official

is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in

equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful use of

outdoor lighting in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.

107.4 Penalty. Any violation of this code, or any portion of this code, shall be considered a civil infraction and

is subject to penalties not to exceed the amount of the maximum fine for a class 2 misdemeanor in accordance

with A.R.S. 11-808. Each day of continuance of the violation constitutes a separate violation. Maximum fines

are $750.00 for individuals and $10,000.00 for corporations, associations or other legal entities. Enforcement

procedures shall be pursuant to those established by each authorizing jurisdiction.

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Chapter 2

Definitions

Section 201

General

201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this

code, have the meanings indicated in this chapter.

201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender

include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.

201.3 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such

terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

Section 202

Definitions

Curfew. A time established for listed lighting systems to be automatically extinguished.

Deteriorated Property. A property that has been damaged or dilapidated beyond normal reasonable repair by

casualty loss, acts of nature, or by severe lack of maintenance to the point it is no longer safely or functionally

usable is its current state shall be deemed deteriorated in line with ARS Title 33.

Destroyed Property. A property that by definition has been ruined beyond use, or demolished, either by

casualty loss, or by acts of nature, and is unsuitable or unsafe for habitation or normal use shall be deemed

destroyed as per U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development definitions.

Developed Area in a Commercial Zone. All improved surface areas likely to be occupied or regularly visited

by people: building, structures, storage, service, and manufacturing areas, assembly areas, parking, loading

driveways, and landscaping related to the uses and betterment of the area. This shall not apply to areas that have

been cleared only. Only those areas meeting this definition shall be counted in the calculation of allowed

lumens as these are the areas requiring lighting.

Developed Area in a Residential Zone. In a residential zone, developed areas are recognized in this code for

lighting as 70% of the parcel up to 2 acres, 60% of the parcel up to 3 acres, and 50% of the parcel up to 4 acres,

with a maximum developed area of 2 acres or 87,120 square feet for parcels 5 acres or larger

Development Project. Any residential, commercial, industrial or mixed use subdivision plan or development

plan which is submitted to the jurisdiction for approval or for permit.

Direct Illumination. Illumination resulting from light emitted directly from a lamp or luminaire, not light

diffused through translucent signs or reflected from other surfaces such as the ground or building faces.

Full Cutoff Light Fixture. A full cutoff light fixture is a luminaire where no light is emitted at or above an

angle of 90 degrees above the nadir. This applies to all lateral angles around the luminaire. Such candela

information shall be as determined by a photometric test report from a nationally recognized independent

testing laboratory and as certified by the manufacturer. Any structural part of the luminaire providing full cutoff

angle shielding shall be permanently attached.

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Fully Shielded Lighting. For the purpose of this code, please refer to Full Cutoff Light Fixture.

Installed. The attachment, or assembly fixed in place, whether or not connected to a power source, or any

outdoor light fixture.

Light Fixture. See also luminaire. The terms Light Fixture and Luminaire may be used interchangeably in this

document.

Light Sources.

1. Incandescent. An electric light with a wire filament that is heated until it glows. These bulbs are in

common use both indoors and outdoors, particularly in residential settings.

2. Lamp. Generic term for a man-made source of light. In the context of this Code, the lamp is an

electrically powered light bulb, fluorescent, or neon tube, or LED light source.

3. LED. Light emitting diode solid state lighting source. LED bulbs are in common use in both

residential and commercial applications.

4. Mercury Vapor. A gas-discharge lamp that uses an electric arc through vaporized mercury to produce

light. Use of Mercury Vapor light sources is prohibited in Tucson and Pima County

Narrow-Band Amber LED. Quasi-monochromatic source with a maximum radiant flux (in Watts per nm)

lying within the 585-605 nm spectral range and having full width half maximum smaller than 18nm. Narrow

Band Amber LEDs emit mostly yellow amber light, and emit no blue light.

Phosphor-Converted Amber LED. Non-white light source that uses a LED with a phosphor to produce a

broad amber emission; requirement that less than 7% of the light emitted in 380-780 nm be emitted in 380-500

nm. Phosphor-coated Amber LEDs work by using a phosphor coated filter which works to convert blue light

mostly to amber light.

Lumen. Unit of luminous flux; used to measure the amount of light emitted by lamps.

Luminaire. The complete lighting assembly, less the support assembly. For purposes of determining total light

output lighting assemblies which include multiple lamps or light sources in a single housing shall be considered

as a single luminaire. Two or more luminaires installed less than three feet apart shall be considered a single

luminaire.

Non-Full Cutoff Light Fixture. A light fixture that is not full cutoff.

Opaque. Opaque means that the material shall not transmit visible light.

Outdoor light fixture. An outdoor illuminating device, luminaire or other device that emits light, permanently

installed or portable.

Outdoor Light Output - Total. The total amount of light, measured in lumens, from all outdoor light sources.

Total outdoor light output is determined as follows:

1. For all lamp types, the initial lumen output, as defined by the lamp manufacturer, shall be the lumen

value used.

2. The total light output for each outdoor light fixture shall be based on the largest lamp that the outdoor

light fixture is rated to accommodate. For the purpose of compliance with this section, the largest

lamp rating for fluorescent and high intensity discharge fixtures shall be based on the installed ballast

rating.

3. It shall be permissible to adjust the lamp lumen rating of fluorescent lamps in accordance with the

ballast factor for the specific ballast type installed.

Outdoor Recreation Facility. An area designed for active recreation, whether publicly or privately owned,

including, but not limited to baseball, soccer, football, golf, tennis, swimming pools, equestrian, and race tracks

of any sort.

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Person. Any individual, tenant, lessee, owner, or any commercial entity including but not limited to firm,

business, partnership, joint venture or corporation.

Right-of-way. An alley, road, street, or highway, and associated sidewalks permanently dedicated for public or

private use.

Shield. A component of the Outdoor Light Fixture that blocks the transmission or emission of light as a means

of controlling or directing the light emitted from the fixture. A permanently attached shield may be part of the

fixture which contributes to the full cutoff lighting performance of the fixture.

Shielded. See also Full Cutoff Fixture. An Outdoor Light Fixture having shields permanently installed to

provide full cutoff photometric performance.

Sign. Every message, announcement, declaration, display, illustration, insignia, surface or space erected or

maintained in a location outside and visible to the public for identification, advertising or promotion of the

interest of any person, entity, product or service.

Temporary Lighting. Lighting which will not be used for more than one thirty (30) day period within a

calendar year, with one thirty (30) day extension. Temporary lighting is intended for uses which by their nature

are of limited duration; for example holiday decorations. Civic events, or construction projects.

Undeveloped Area. In a commercial setting, undeveloped areas are those areas of a project that will have now

improvements or betterments for the project. This includes areas that have been cleared but are unused for

infrastructure. Undeveloped areas shall not be used in the calculation of allowable lumens for a project as there

is no expectation of occupation or regular visits by humans.

Unshielded. See also Non-Full Cutoff. Any light fixture or luminaire that is not a Full Cutoff Light Fixture.

Use – Abandonment of. The relinquishment of a property, or the cessation of the use or activity by the owner

or tenant for a period of six months, excluding temporary or short term interruptions for the purpose of

remodeling, maintaining, or otherwise improving or rearranging a facility. A use shall be deemed abandoned

when such use is suspended as evidenced by the cessation of activities or conditions which constitute the

principal use of the property.

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Chapter 3

Lighting Areas

Section 301

Description of Lighting Areas

301.1 Lighting Areas. Lighting areas are defined as follows:

301.1.1 Lighting Area E3. Lighting area E3 is the urban area circumscribed by the Tucson city limits,

but not including any area within the physical boundaries of Lighting Area E3a as described below.

Additional locations in lighting area E3 include:

1. The area bounded by the Rillito River on the north, Interstate Highway 10 on the

West, and the Tucson city limits on the south and east.

2. The area northwest of Ft. Lowell Road and Alvernon Way bounded by the Rillito

River on the North and the Tucson city limits on the west, south and east.

3. The area north of Los Reales Road from Country Club Road on the west and

Interstate 10 Highway on the east bounded by the Tucson city limits on the west,

north and east.

4. The area east and west of Kolb Road at Valencia Road bounded on the north, south,

east and west by the Tucson city limits and extending southeast to Interstate 10

Highway and Rita Road.

5. The area within the entire city limits of the City of South Tucson.

301.1.2 Lighting Area E3a. Lighting area E3a is a special area south and west of Mt. Lemmon

defined as follows: the Pinal County line on the north, along the center line of the Santa Cruz River, to

the center line of Rillito River, to the center line of Tanque Verde Creek, then along the centerline of

Tanque Verde Creek to a point 1500 feet north of the northwesterly most corner of Saguaro National

Park East, then to said northwesterly corner, then due east to the border of the Santa Catalina District

of the Coronado National Forest, then north and west along the border of the Santa Catalina District of

the Coronado National Forest to the Pinal County Line. Additional locations in lighting Area E3a

include:

1. The area south and east from the joining of the the Tanque Verde Creek and Pantano

Wash, bounded on the south and west by the Pantano Wash, on the south and east by

the Tucson city limits and the north by the Tanque Verde Creek.

301.1.3 Lighting Area E2. Lighting area E2 is area falling outside all other lighting areas defined

herein.

301.1.4 Lighting Area E1a. Lighting areas E1a are special areas around astronomical observatories

and include all areas within 15 miles of the summit of Kitt Peak and 12.5 miles of the summit of

Mount Hopkins, and those areas within any national park, monument, or forest boundary. The area in

the northeast corner of Pima County bounded to the north by Pinal County, to the west by the Santa

Catalina District of Coronado National Forest, to the south by Saguaro National Park East and to the

east by Cochise County is also included in Lighting Area E1a. In these areas, the preservation of a

naturally-dark environment, both in the sky and in the visible landscape, is considered of paramount

concern.

301.1.5 Lighting Area E1b. Lighting area E1b includes the circular area twenty-five miles in radius

the center of which is the summit of Mount Hopkins.

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301.1.6 Lighting Area E1c. Lighting area E1c includes the circular area thirty-five miles in radius the

center of which is the summit of Kitt Peak.

301.2 Properties in more than one lighting area. A property located in more than one of the lighting areas

described within this chapter shall be considered to be only in the more restrictive lighting area.

301.3 Map of Lighting Areas. Lighting areas may be viewed at Pima County PimaMaps

1. Select “Layers”

2. Select “Regulatory”

3. Select the box to the left of “Lighting Code – Pima County”

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Chapter 4

Lighting Sources, Illumination Levels and Shielding Requirements

Section 401

Total Outdoor Light Output and

Shielding Requirements

401.1 General. Table 401.1 provides requirements of the total light output permitted per acre for the different

lighting areas and the fixture shielding requirements for, lamp type and lighting area. These requirements shall

be met for all lighting installations subject to this code, unless specifically exempted by Chapters 6, 7 and 8.

401.2 Total outdoor light output. Total outdoor light output shall not exceed the lumen limits listed in Table

401.1. In the table, “total” means the sum of shielded/full cutoff and unshielded light/non-full cutoff.

401.2.1 Determining compliance. For determining compliance with this chapter the total lumens is

the sum of the following:

1. One hundred percent of the lumens from outdoor light fixtures installed on grade, on poles, and

installed on the top or sides of buildings of other structures.

2. Fifty percent of the lumens from underwater light fixtures unless the fixture is aimed at an angle of

less than 45 degrees above the horizontal; in which case the calculated lumens is calculated at 10

percent of the rated lumens.

3. Fixtures installed under canopies and overhangs. Outdoor lighting fixtures shall not be counted in

determining the total light output when they are full cutoff light fixtures installed under canopies,

building overhangs, or roof eaves.

4. Unshielded/non-full cutoff light fixtures installed under canopies, building overhangs, or roof

eaves shall be calculated at 100 percent of the luminaire total light output. Installation under

canopies, overhangs or roof eaves shall not provide full cutoff classification of unshielded/non full

cutoff light fixtures.

401.3 Light trespass. All light fixtures that are required to be shielded/full cutoff shall be installed in such a

manner that the shielding, or full cutoff effect, is effective and permanent is effective and permanent.

401.3.1 Mounting height. All lighting abutting residential property, light fixtures on the commercial

property adjacent to residential property shall be shielded/full cutoff and shall be installed not higher

than 10 feet above grade at the property line and no higher than a line rising 20 degrees above the 10

feet until 100 feet from the property line, measured perpendicular to the lot line.

401.3.2 House Side Shields. Outdoor lighting fixtures closer to the lot line than the mounting height of

the fixture, measured perpendicular to the lot line, adjacent to residential areas, shall have internal

house-side shields.

401.3.3 Fixtures within 25 feet of residential lot lines. Residential and commercial luminaires shall

be full cutoff within 25 feet of adjacent residential property lines, measured perpendicular to the lot

line.

401.3.4 Flood and spot lamps. Flood or spot lamps shall be aimed no higher than 45 degrees to the

horizontal (half-way between straight down and straight to the side) when the source is visible from

any adjacent residential property.

401.4 Other than Full Cutoff Lighting. Unshielded/non-full cutoff fixtures or lighting sources shall not

exceed 3,000 lumens per luminaire.

Exception to 401.4: Non-full cutoff lighting installed in accordance with Section 601.2.

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401.5 Optional compliance method for single family residential compliance. In lieu of calculating total

lumens per Section 401.2, a single residential lot shall be exempt from the Lumen Cap if the total amount of

outdoor lighting complies with the following:

1. Outdoor Light Fixtures at all locations listed below shall be shielded/full cutoff. In Lighting Areas E3,

E3a, or E2 light sources shall be compliant with Section 402.1. In Lighting Areas E1c, E1b, and E1a

light sources shall be Amber LED as described below unless otherwise noted.

2. In Lighting Areas E3, E3a, and E2 with minimum lot sizes of 0.25 acres; not more than 3, 400 lumens

may be installed at any location. In addition, light fixtures may be installed under canopies or

overhangs, not exceeding 15 lumens/square foot of canopy area.

3. In Lighting Areas E3, E3a, and E2 lot sizes less than .025 acres; not more than 2,000 lumens may be

installed at any location. In addition, light fixtures may be installed under canopies or overhangs not

exceeding 15 lumen/square foot of canopy area.

4. In Lighting Areas E1c and E1b, with a minimum lot size of 0.25 acre; not more than 3,400 lumens

from PC Amber LED sources may be installed at any location. In addition, light fixture compliant with

Section 402.1 may be installed under canopies or overhangs, not exceeding 8 lumens/square foot of

canopy area.

5. In Lighting Areas E1c and E1b lot sizes less than 0.25 acre; not more than 2,000 lumens from PC

Amber sources may be installed at any location. In addition, light fixtures compliant with section 402.1

may be installed under canopies or overhangs, not exceeding 8 lumens/square foot of canopy area.

6. In Lighting Areas E1b and E1a any lot size; not more than 2, 000 lumens from NB Amber LED source

may be installed at any location. In addition, NB Amber light fixtures may be installed under canopies

or overhangs, not exceeding 8 lumens/square foot of canopy area.

401.6 Seasonal Decorations. Seasonal decorations using unshielded/non-full cutoff low-wattage lamps (not

exceeding 7 watts each) shall be exempted from the Lumen Caps of Table 401.1 from Thanksgiving to the 15

of January each year. This exemption is not applicable to Lighting Area E1a.

Table 401.1

Maximum Total Outdoor Light Output Requirements

Lumen Caps: Developed Area Lumens per Acre

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 15 of 21

Notes to Table 401.1

1. Use any one of the three options, 1, 2, 3 for the developed area.

2. This refers to all land-use zoning classifications for multiple family uses including apartments and

condos, commercial, and industrial sites.

3. This refers to all residential land-use zoning, such as single family detached and duplexes.

4. For Residential lighting, if at least 75 percent of the installed lumens are from Amber LED sources,

then the total lumens in the table, for all areas, may be increased by 50 percent.

5. In addition to the lumen caps given in the table above, the maximum illumination level under any

canopy in Lighting Area E1a shall not exceed 30 lumens per square foot and in Lighting Area E1b

shall not exceed 55 lumens per square foot of the canopy area.

6. Other than amber LED, light temperature maximum is 3000K.

Section 402

Outdoor Lighting Source Color Temperature

402.1 Rated Color Temperature. The rated color temperature of light sources (lamps and fixtures) shall not

exceed 3000K.

Exception No. 1: Recreation and Special Use Lighting complying with Chapters 6 and 7 of this Code.

Exception No. 2: Existing legal, non-conforming light fixtures may be relamped with greater than

3000K rated lamps when 3000K or lower rated lamps are not manufactured for such fixtures.

Lighting Area as Defined in

Chapter 3

Commercial and industrial

“Option 1” (1)(2) (mostly

Amber LED lighting)

E3a

E1c

E1b(5)

E1a(5)

Total (full cutoff Amber LED,

plus full cutoff Amber LED,

plus unshielded/non-full

cutoff)

177,000

101,000

48,000

20,000

16,660

16,600

Limit on non-Amber full cut-

off.

20,000

15,000

11,000

3,500

1,800

Limit on unshielded/non-full

cutoff component (Amber LED

or non-Amber LED)

6,600

5,400

1,800

Commercial and industrial

“Option 2” (1)(2) (full cut-off

for all lighting)

E3a

E1c

E1b(5)

E1a(5)

All lighting must be full cut-off

148,000

89,000

37,000

16,700

18,500

7,800

Limit on unshielded

component

Commercial and industrial

“Option 3” (1)(2) (full cut-off

for most lighting)

E3a

E1c

E1b(5)

E1a(5)

Total (full cut-off plus

unshielded)

104,000

59,200

28,200

11,900

7,400

Limit on unshielded

component

6,600

5,400

1,700

All residential zoning (3)

E3a

E1c

E1b(5)

E1a(5)

Total (full cut-off plus

unshielded) (4)

33,000

24,000

15,000

9,000

7,200

Limit on unshielded

component

6,600

5,400

1,700

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 16 of 21

Section 403

Curfew Requirements

403.1 Unshielded/Non-Full Cutoff Light Sources. Unshielded/non-full cutoff lighting shall be extinguished

between 11:00 P.M. and sunrise the following day.

Exception No. 1: Unshielded/non-full cutoff lighting installed for the illumination of the flag of the

United States of America.

Exception No. 2: Unshielded/non-full cutoff lighting installed in accordance with Section 601.2 shall

be turned off in accordance with the curfew requirements of Section 601.3.

Exception No. 3: Unshielded/non-full cutoff lighting on installations classified as Residential Zoning

in accordance with Footnote 2 to Table 401.1.

403.2 Illuminated Signs. Refer to Section 501.5.

403.3 Recreational Facilities. Refer to Section 601.3

403.4 Special Use Areas. Refer to Section 701.3

403.5 Outdoor Lighting Controls.

403.5.1 The means of controlling the specific “off” curfew shall be by a 24 hour timing device that

includes stand-by power to maintain the time and program for a minimum of 6 hours.

403.5.2 Whenever any curfew “off” time is required by this Code, a permanent sign or notice shall be

installed at the time control device stating the required turn-off time. Such sign or notice may

be installed within the cover of the time control device such that it is visible whenever the

device is set or adjusted. Suggested wording is as follows:

“Set off time for Sign no later than 10:00PM MST in accordance with City of Tucson/Pima

County Outdoor Lighting Code. Penalty for non-compliance per Outdoor Lighting Code

Section 107.4. Penalties shall not exceed $750.00 for individuals and $10,000.00 for other legal

entities.” (Adjust wording as needed for type of lighting to which curfew applies and the

applicable curfew time.)

403.6 Illumination of the flag of the United States of America.

403.6.1 For nighttime illumination of the flag of the United States of America, flagpoles shall be

outfitted with a pole top downward illuminating light fixture. Lumens in these fixtures shall be

calculated as part of the of the unshielded/non-full cutoff lighting totals unless the fixture meets

the requirements for full cutoff lighting.

404 Motion Sensing Controls

404.1 Motion Sensing Controls. Motion Sensing Controls shall be provided for building and pole

mounted light fixtures which illuminate parking lots, driveways, pedestrian areas and other open

outdoor areas.

Exception No. 1: Light fixtures mounted 12 feet above grade level and below.

Exception No. 2: Lighting installed in accordance with Chapters 6, 7, and 8.

Exception No. 3: Lighting installed under canopies or in open parking garages.

Exception No. 4: Legal, non-conforming existing light fixtures

Exception No. 5: Full cutoff light fixtures installed for the illumination of the United States Flag and

mounted over 12 feet above grade level.

404.2 Motion Sensing Controls Operation: Motion sensing controls shall automatically dim fixtures

to 50 percent or less of the full rated light output per the following:

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 17 of 21

1. During any time when no activity has been detected for 15 minutes or more.

2. Sensing and dimming shall be done pr fixture or per pole basis.

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 18 of 21

Chapter 5

Sign Lighting

Section 501

Illuminated Outdoor Signs

501.1 External illumination of on-site signs. External illumination for on-site signs shall conform to all

provisions of this code. In particular, such lighting shall conform to the lamp source, shielding requirements,

color temperature, and lumen caps of Chapter 4.

501.2 Illumination of off-site signs prohibited. Electrical illumination of outdoor off-site signs is

prohibited, except that the use of lighting fixtures legally installed in Areas E2 and E3 prior to the effective date

of this code may continue, provided such fixtures are mounted on the top of the sign structure, shall not be

illuminated between the hours of 11:00 P.M. and sunrise the following day, and comply with all other

provisions of this code.

501.3 Internal illumination of signs. The requirements of this paragraph apply to totally enclosed and

unenclosed signs where the lamp is not directly visible from any viewing angle. A lamp concealed behind

opaque or translucent material is considered not directly visible.

501.3.1 Lumen cap. Outdoor internally illuminated signs are exempt from the lumen caps described

in Chapter 4.

501.3.2 Color temperature. Rated lamp color temperature shall not exceed 4400K.

501.3.3 Prohibited installations. Outdoor internally illuminated signs shall not be installed in

Lighting Area E1a.

501.4 Exposed Lamps. Lamps not concealed from view by opaque or translucent material shall be

considered outdoor lighting and shall conform to the lamp source, shielding requirements, color temperature,

and lumen caps of Chapter 4.

501.5 LED, LCD, Plasma Screen and Similar Signs: Outdoor LED, LCD, Plasma and Similar signs shall

comply with Sections 501.3.1 and 501.3.3. Further, they shall be limited to a maximum luminous intensity of

200 nits (candela per square meter), full white mode, from sunset to sunrise.

501.6 Sign illumination curfew. Illuminated signs shall be turned off at the curfew times listed in Table 501.5

or when the business activities cease, whichever is later. Signs shall be turned off when the business activity

relating to the sign has ceased for 30 days or more. Controls shall comply with Section 403.5.

Table 501.5

Illuminated Sign Curfews

Lighting Area

E3a

E1b or c

E1a

Commercial and Industrial

Zoning or Land Use (1)

12:00 A.M.

11:00 P.M.

All Residential Zoning or

Land Use (1)

11:00 P.M.

10:00 P.M.

9:00 P.M.

Notes to Table 501.5

1. “Land Use” refers to the predominant use of land surrounding the parcel on which the sign is

located.

2. “X” means “not allowed”.

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 19 of 21

Chapter 6

Recreational Facilities

Section 601

Illumination of Recreational Facilities

601.1 Lighting not directly related to athletic areas. All site lighting not directly associated with the athletic

playing areas shall conform to the lighting standards described in this ordinance, including but not limited to the

lamp type and lumens per acre limits of Chapter 4.

601.2 Lighting for athletic fields requiring full color rendition. Lighting for athletic fields, courts or tracks

shall be exempt from the lumens per acre limits of Chapter 4. All such lighting shall utilize full cut-off

luminaires that are installed in a fashion that maintains the full cut-off characteristics unless certified by a

registered engineer that such shielding is impractical. Every such lighting system design shall be certified by a

registered engineer as conforming to all applicable restrictions of this ordinance. Where full cut-off fixtures are

not utilized, acceptable luminaires shall include those which:

1. Are provided with internal and /or external glare control louvers and installed so as to limit direct

up-light to less than 5 percent of the total lumens exiting from the installed fixtures and minimize

off-site light trespass and;

2. Are installed and maintained with minimum aiming angles of 25 degrees downward from the

horizontal. Said aiming angle shall be measured from the axis of the luminaire maximum beam

candlepower as certified by independent testing agency.

601.3 Curfew requirements.

601.3.1 Event Schedule. All events shall be scheduled so as to complete all activity before the

curfew listed in Table 601.3. Illumination of the playing field, court or track shall be permitted after

the curfew only to conclude a scheduled event that was unable to conclude before the curfew due to

unusual circumstances. Lighting may remain on up to one hour after the conclusion of play in order to

allow for any required field maintenance that must take place at the end of play. Timing devices for

recreational facilities may include a manual override setting which returns to the established program

within 1 hour.

601.3.2 Allowable operation and turn-on controls. Athletic field lighting not conforming to the

shielding and lumen caps of Chapter 4 shall not be operated, except during those days and times when

the athletic event occurs. Turn-on of the lighting shall be activated by manual control of the lighting

system. The Building Official may approve automatic controls for lighting turn on if they provide

equivalent assurance that the lighting will not be operating at times when the facilities are not in use.

601.3.3 Automatic Controls. Automatic controls shall comply with Section 403.5.

Table 601.3

Recreational Facilities and Special Use Areas Curfews

E3a

E1b or c

E1a

12:00 A.M.

11:00 P.M.

10:00 P.M.

“x” means not allowed.

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 20 of 21

Chapter 7

Special Use Areas

Section 701

Illumination of Special Use Areas

701.1 Special Use Areas Defined. This chapter applies to lighting for outdoor sales areas and outdoor

manufacturing areas.

701.2 Lighting not associated with special use areas. All outdoor lighting not directly associated with the

special use areas shall conform to the lighting standards described in this ordinance, including but not limited to

the lumen per acre limits, shielding requirements, color temperature and curfew requirements of Chapter 4.

701.3 Lighting for special use areas. Lighting for special use areas is exempt from the lumens per acre limits

of Section. All such lighting shall utilize full cut-off luminaires that are installed in a fashion that maintains the

full cut-off characteristics. Every such lighting system design shall be certified by a registered lighting or

electrical engineer as conforming to all applicable restrictions of this code.

701.4 Curfew requirements. Special Use Area lighting shall be turned off at the curfew times listed in Table

601.3 or within thirty minutes after closing of the business, whichever is later. Automatic controls shall comply

with Section 403.4.

701.5 Lighting for special use areas after curfew. Outdoor lighting operated after curfew times listed in

Table 601.3 shall comply with the lumen per acre limits, shielding, source color temperature and curfew

requirements of Chapter 4.

2024 Tucson/Pima County Outdoor Lighting Code Page 21 of 21

Chapter 8

Right-of-Ways

Section 801

Illumination of Right-of-Ways

801.1 Lighting of Right-of-Ways. Lighting of public and private right-of-ways shall be full cutoff or comply

with Section 401.4. In addition, lighting shall comply with source color temperature of Section 402.1. The

lighting system performance shall be demonstrated by a computer program printout of the maintained

illumination levels produced from the right-of way lighting fixtures certified by a registered design professional.

Exception No. 1: Traffic signal indications.

Exception No. 2: Chapter 4, except where specifically referenced in this Section.

801.2 Definitions:

Right-of-Way types-

Expressway – A divided major roadway for through traffic, with partial control of access and

generally with interchanges at major crossroads.

Major Roads – The part of the roadway system that serves as the principal network for the through

traffic flow. The routes connect areas of principal traffic generation and important rural roadways

leaving the city.

Collector Roads – Roadways serving traffic between major and local streets. These are streets used

mainly for traffic movement within residential, commercial and industrial areas.

Local Roads – Local streets are used primarily for direct access to residential, commercial, industrial,

or other abutting property.

801.3 Illumination levels of Right-of-Ways. The maximum average illumination level, as demonstrated by the

computer printout, along the entire right-of way being illuminated and over the right-of-way area only, shall be:

Expressway 1.4 footcandles

Major Roads 1.5 footcandles

Collector Roads 1.0 footcandles

Local Roads Prohibited, except 0.4 footcandles in area E3 and at signalized intersections and

marked pedestrian crossings.

Existing luminaires on local roads may be retrofitted with full cutoff luminaires with the design not to exceed

0.4 footcandles average maintained as described in 801.1.

The uniformity ratio of average to minimum illumination shall not be greater than the values for uniformity in

the latest version of IES RP-8.00.

801.4 Illumination level of intersections. The maximum maintained average illumination in the intersection

area shall be 2 times the average of the maintained footcandles of the two types of roads at the intersections.

Intersections of Collector & Local Roads shall be 1.6 footcandles maximum and at Local & Local Roads shall

be 1.4 footcandles maximum.

801.5 Minimum source efficacy. The minimum source efficacy to be used for light fixtures used in public

right-of-way illumination shall be 60 lumens per watt.