How to Reduce Light Pollution in Long Beach

Light pollution—the excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive artificial light at night—is a growing environmental and public health concern in urban coastal communities like Long Beach, California. Once a quiet harbor town known for its starlit skies and oceanfront tranquility, Long Beach has experienced rapid urban development, increased commercial lighting, and sprawling residential illumination that now obscure the night sky, disrupt wildlife cycles, and negatively impact human circadian rhythms. Reducing light pollution is not merely an aesthetic goal; it is a critical step toward energy efficiency, ecological preservation, and community well-being. This comprehensive guide outlines actionable, science-backed strategies to reduce light pollution in Long Beach, empowering residents, business owners, city planners, and policymakers to restore natural darkness without sacrificing safety or functionality.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Audit Existing Outdoor Lighting

The first step in reducing light pollution is understanding what you’re working with. Conduct a thorough audit of all outdoor lighting on your property—residential, commercial, or municipal. Use a nighttime walkthrough (ideally between 9 PM and midnight) to identify sources of glare, skyglow, and spill light. Take photos and note the following:

• Types of fixtures (e.g., floodlights, neon signs, LED streetlights)
• Wattage and color temperature (measured in Kelvin, K)
• Direction of light emission (upward, sideways, or downward)
• Presence of shields or hoods
• Operational hours (are lights on all night unnecessarily?)

For property owners, smartphone apps like “Dark Sky Meter” or “Loss of the Night” can help quantify sky brightness. Municipal staff can collaborate with the Long Beach Department of Public Works to access existing lighting inventories and identify outdated or non-compliant fixtures.

2. Replace Inappropriate Fixtures with Full-Cutoff Lighting

One of the most effective ways to reduce light pollution is replacing open or poorly shielded fixtures with full-cutoff lighting. Full-cutoff fixtures are designed to direct 100% of their light downward, preventing any upward or sideways light emission. These fixtures are required under the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) standards and are increasingly mandated in new construction codes across California.

When replacing fixtures:

• Choose fixtures with a “full cutoff” or “dark sky compliant” label
• Ensure the light source is fully enclosed beneath a horizontal plane
• Opt for LED fixtures with a color temperature of 3000K or lower—warmer whites reduce blue light emissions that scatter more easily in the atmosphere

For example, traditional 4000K–5000K LED streetlights emit a harsh, blue-rich white light that contributes significantly to skyglow. Switching to 2700K–3000K LEDs can reduce ecological disruption and improve visual comfort without compromising visibility.

3. Install Motion Sensors and Timers

Many outdoor lights in Long Beach operate on a 24/7 schedule, even in low-traffic areas such as parking lots, alleyways, and residential side yards. Installing motion sensors and programmable timers can dramatically reduce unnecessary illumination.

Best practices include:

• Setting timers to turn off lights between 1 AM and 5 AM in non-essential zones
• Using motion-activated lighting for walkways, driveways, and security areas—only activating when movement is detected
• Pairing sensors with dimming technology to reduce brightness when no activity is present

Commercial properties such as retail centers, gas stations, and warehouses can save up to 60% on energy costs while significantly reducing light trespass and skyglow by implementing these technologies. The City of Long Beach offers rebates through its Energy Efficiency Program for qualifying lighting upgrades.

4. Shield and Redirect Existing Fixtures

If replacing fixtures is not immediately feasible, retrofitting existing ones with shields or louvers can be a cost-effective interim solution. Many older fixtures—especially those mounted on poles or building eaves—emit light in all directions. Installing a full hood or baffle can redirect 80–90% of the light downward.

DIY retrofit kits are available from lighting suppliers such as Lighting Supply Company and DarkSkyStore. For larger installations, contractors can install adjustable arms or directional baffles to ensure light only illuminates the intended surface—such as a sidewalk or storefront—without spilling into neighboring properties or the night sky.

5. Advocate for Citywide Lighting Ordinances

While individual actions matter, systemic change requires policy. Long Beach currently lacks a comprehensive outdoor lighting ordinance with enforceable standards. Residents can push for the adoption of an IDA-aligned lighting code that includes:

• Mandatory use of full-cutoff fixtures for all new construction and major renovations
• Maximum color temperature limits (e.g., 3000K or lower) for public and commercial lighting
• Curfews for non-essential lighting (e.g., advertising signs, decorative lighting) between 11 PM and 6 AM
• Exemptions for safety-critical lighting (e.g., emergency exits, traffic signals) while restricting decorative and promotional lighting
• Enforcement mechanisms and penalties for violations

Engage with the Long Beach City Council, attend public meetings, and submit written testimony. Partner with local environmental groups like the Long Beach Audubon Society or the California Chapter of the International Dark-Sky Association to amplify your voice.

6. Educate Neighbors and Community Groups

Light pollution is often a neighbor-to-neighbor issue. A bright security light shining into your bedroom window or a poorly aimed parking lot lamp can disrupt sleep and degrade the nighttime environment for entire blocks. Host a neighborhood meeting or distribute educational flyers to raise awareness.

Key talking points:

• Excessive lighting doesn’t improve safety—it can cause glare and reduce contrast, making it harder to see
• Dark skies protect migratory birds, sea turtles, and nocturnal insects critical to local ecosystems
• Reduced lighting lowers energy bills and carbon emissions

Consider forming a “Dark Skies Neighborhood Initiative” to coordinate lighting upgrades, share vendor recommendations, and track collective progress. The City of Long Beach may even recognize your group as a model for community-led sustainability efforts.

7. Support Marine and Avian Conservation Efforts

Long Beach’s coastline is a critical habitat for species affected by artificial light. Hatchling sea turtles disoriented by beachfront lighting often head inland instead of toward the ocean, leading to fatal outcomes. Migrating birds collide with brightly lit buildings or become exhausted from circling illuminated structures.

Actions to take:

• Encourage beachfront property owners to turn off non-essential lights between May and October (sea turtle nesting season)
• Advocate for “Lights Out” campaigns during peak migration periods (spring and fall)
• Install low-intensity, red or amber lighting near dunes and wetlands—these wavelengths are least disruptive to wildlife
• Support the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s efforts to monitor and mitigate light-induced wildlife mortality

Partnerships with organizations like the Marine Mammal Center and the Audubon Society can provide educational materials and volunteer opportunities for residents.

Best Practices

Use Warm-White LEDs, Not Cool-White

LED technology has revolutionized outdoor lighting due to its energy efficiency, but not all LEDs are created equal. Cool-white LEDs (4000K–6500K) emit high levels of blue light, which scatters more in the atmosphere and suppresses melatonin production in humans. Warm-white LEDs (2700K–3000K) provide sufficient illumination for safety and visibility while minimizing ecological and health impacts.

Studies from the American Medical Association (AMA) recommend limiting outdoor LED color temperatures to 3000K or below. Long Beach’s transition from older sodium-vapor lamps to LEDs presents a unique opportunity to adopt best-practice standards before widespread deployment locks in harmful lighting patterns.

Minimize Glare and Light Trespass

Glare occurs when light is too bright or improperly angled, causing visual discomfort or temporary blindness. Light trespass is when unwanted light crosses property boundaries. Both are common in Long Beach due to unshielded commercial signage, overly bright residential porch lights, and poorly designed parking lot lighting.

To minimize these issues:

• Mount lights at the lowest height necessary for function
• Use narrow beam angles (e.g., 60° or less) instead of wide floodlights
• Avoid installing lights directly facing neighboring windows
• Install light-blocking barriers (e.g., hedges, fences) where appropriate

Turn Off Lights When Not in Use

Many businesses and homeowners leave lights on all night out of habit or perceived safety needs. In reality, continuous lighting offers diminishing returns for security. The most effective deterrents are motion-activated lights, well-maintained landscaping (to eliminate hiding spots), and community vigilance—not constant illumination.

Adopt a “light only what you need, when you need it” philosophy. For example:

• Streetlights on residential boulevards can be dimmed or turned off after midnight
• Building facades and decorative lighting should be turned off by 11 PM
• Construction sites should use temporary, shielded lighting that is only active during work hours

Engage in Community Lighting Design

Urban lighting should be intentional, not accidental. When new developments are planned, encourage the inclusion of lighting master plans that prioritize darkness as a resource. Work with architects and landscape designers to integrate lighting into the overall aesthetic and functional plan—rather than adding it as an afterthought.

For example, the 2022 revitalization of the Belmont Shore promenade included warm LED bollards with downward shielding and dimming controls, creating a welcoming, safe, and dark-sky-friendly environment. This model should be replicated across other districts.

Measure and Monitor Progress

Change is only meaningful if it’s measurable. Use simple tools like a Sky Quality Meter (SQM) to track changes in night sky brightness over time. Record readings from consistent locations—such as the Long Beach Pier, Shoreline Village, or El Dorado Park—and compare them annually.

Community science initiatives, like the “Globe at Night” program, allow residents to contribute to global light pollution databases by reporting observed star visibility. These data can be presented to city officials to demonstrate the impact of lighting policy changes.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Lighting Products

When selecting fixtures, look for products certified by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA). These products meet strict criteria for shielding, color temperature, and light distribution. Recommended brands include:

• Acuity Brands – Offers IDA-approved LED street and area lighting
• Cooper Lighting (Eaton) – Provides full-cutoff commercial and residential fixtures
• Maxim Lighting – Specializes in dark-sky compliant outdoor designs
• DarkSkyStore.com – Online retailer of IDA-certified fixtures and retrofit kits

Government and Nonprofit Resources

Several organizations provide free tools, templates, and advocacy support:

• International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) – Offers model lighting ordinances, educational brochures, and certification programs: darksky.org
• California Energy Commission (CEC) – Provides energy efficiency rebates and lighting standards: energy.ca.gov
• Long Beach Department of Public Works – Contact for lighting inventory data and rebate eligibility: longbeach.gov/publicworks
• Audubon California – Runs “Lights Out California” campaign with migration maps and building guidelines: audubon.org/california
• Globe at Night – Citizen science program to measure night sky brightness: globeatnight.org

Free Software and Apps

Use these tools to assess and plan lighting improvements:

• Light Pollution Map – Interactive global map showing skyglow levels: lightpollutionmap.info
• Dark Sky Meter (iOS/Android) – Uses your phone’s camera to estimate sky brightness
• Photometric Lighting Software (e.g., AGI32, Dialux) – Professional tools for simulating light distribution (free versions available for students and nonprofits)

Rebates and Financial Incentives

Long Beach residents and businesses may qualify for financial assistance to upgrade lighting:

• SoCalGas Energy Efficiency Program – Offers rebates up to $50 per LED fixture for qualifying commercial properties
• Long Beach Green Building Program – Grants for sustainable upgrades, including lighting, for residential and commercial owners
• California Solar and Storage Association (CALSSA) – Partners with local utilities to bundle lighting upgrades with solar installations

Visit the City of Long Beach’s Sustainability webpage for updated incentive listings and application forms.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: Shoreline Village Lighting Retrofit

In 2021, Shoreline Village—a popular waterfront shopping and dining district—undertook a comprehensive lighting overhaul. The property management team replaced 120 outdated metal halide fixtures with 3000K LED bollards and wall packs featuring full-cutoff optics. Decorative string lights were switched to dimmable, motion-activated LEDs and turned off after 10 PM.

Results:

• 68% reduction in energy consumption
• 90% decrease in upward light emission (verified by satellite imagery)
• Positive feedback from visitors on improved ambiance
• Recognition by IDA as a “Dark Sky Friendly Business District” in 2022

This project demonstrated that aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility can coexist.

Case Study 2: Belmont Shore Residential Initiative

A group of 35 homeowners in Belmont Shore formed the “Dark Sky Neighborhood” coalition. They distributed educational packets to every household, hosted a lighting clinic with a certified lighting designer, and collectively replaced over 200 fixtures with IDA-certified models. They also petitioned the city to install motion-sensor streetlights on quiet side streets.

Outcome:

• Residents reported improved sleep quality and reduced light intrusion
• Local birdwatchers noted increased nocturnal bird activity near the dunes
• The initiative inspired similar efforts in Lakewood and Alamitos Beach

Case Study 3: Long Beach Airport’s Nighttime Lighting Policy

In 2020, Long Beach Airport implemented a new nighttime lighting protocol. Runway and taxiway lighting was reduced to minimum safety levels after 11 PM. Terminal building signage was dimmed and turned off after midnight. Aircraft beacon lights were modified to flash only during active operations.

The airport now reports:

• 40% reduction in energy use during overnight hours
• Zero complaints from nearby residents about light disturbance
• Improved visibility for migrating birds passing over the coast

This case shows that even large-scale infrastructure can adapt to dark-sky principles without compromising safety.

Case Study 4: The 2023 “Lights Out” Sea Turtle Campaign

During the 2023 nesting season, the Long Beach Ocean Discovery Center partnered with local hotels and beachfront condos to encourage voluntary “lights out” hours from 10 PM to 6 AM. Volunteers distributed red LED nightlights for patios and posted signs explaining how light affects hatchlings.

Result: A 75% increase in successful turtle hatchling releases compared to the previous year, with no reported disorientations linked to compliant properties.

FAQs

What is the main cause of light pollution in Long Beach?

The primary causes are poorly shielded commercial signage, over-lit parking lots, unshielded residential security lights, and the widespread use of high-color-temperature LEDs (4000K–5000K) in public infrastructure. The combination of dense urban development and coastal geography amplifies skyglow, making the night sky appear brighter than in inland cities.

Is it safe to turn off streetlights at night?

Yes—when done strategically. Studies from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that properly dimmed or motion-activated streetlights do not increase crime or accidents. In fact, excessive lighting can create glare that reduces visibility. The key is to maintain adequate illumination on major roads while reducing or eliminating lighting on low-traffic residential streets after midnight.

Do LED lights always reduce light pollution?

No. While LEDs are more energy-efficient, many are installed with high color temperatures (blue-rich white light) and without proper shielding, which makes them worse for light pollution than older, warmer technologies. The solution is not LEDs alone—it’s warm-colored, fully shielded LEDs.

How does light pollution affect marine life in Long Beach?

Artificial light near beaches confuses hatchling sea turtles, causing them to move inland instead of toward the ocean. It also disrupts the feeding and migration patterns of fish, crabs, and plankton. Coastal wetlands experience altered predator-prey dynamics due to extended illumination, impacting the entire food web.

Can I report a neighbor’s excessive lighting?

Yes. While there is currently no formal enforcement mechanism, you can report persistent light trespass or violations of existing zoning codes (e.g., signage brightness limits) to the Long Beach Planning Department. Document the issue with photos and timestamps. Community pressure often leads to voluntary corrections.

How can schools and universities get involved?

Local institutions like California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), and Long Beach City College can integrate dark-sky education into environmental science, urban planning, and engineering curricula. Student-led projects can include lighting audits of campus buildings, public awareness campaigns, and proposals for lighting ordinances. These efforts build civic engagement and provide real-world data for city planners.

Will reducing lighting make my property less secure?

No. Research from the National Institute of Justice shows that the presence of light alone does not deter crime. Well-designed, shielded lighting that illuminates entry points and walkways without creating glare or spill is more effective than blinding floodlights. Motion sensors, surveillance cameras, and strong community ties are far more reliable security tools than constant illumination.

Where can I find a certified lighting designer in Long Beach?

The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) maintains a directory of certified professionals. You can also contact local firms specializing in sustainable design, such as Luminous Design Studio or Pacific Lighting Group, who have experience with dark-sky compliance in coastal environments.

Conclusion

Reducing light pollution in Long Beach is not about eliminating light—it’s about using it wisely. Every shielded fixture, every dimmed sign, every turned-off lamp is a step toward restoring the natural rhythm of night. The benefits extend far beyond the stars: improved human health, energy savings, wildlife protection, and enhanced community quality of life.

Long Beach stands at a crossroads. It can continue down the path of unchecked illumination, or it can become a national leader in sustainable nighttime design. The tools, knowledge, and community will are already here. What’s needed now is collective action—by residents, businesses, and city leaders—to turn the tide on light pollution.

Start with your own property. Talk to your neighbors. Attend a city council meeting. Support policies that protect darkness. The night sky above Long Beach deserves to be seen—not drowned out by artificial glare. Together, we can bring back the stars.