CHELAN COUNTY CODE REQUIREMENTS
Manson Dark Sky & Chelan County Outdoor Lighting Codes
Protecting our night sky isn’t just good practice — it’s written into county law. Below are the key legal standards that govern outdoor lighting for properties in the Manson Urban Growth Area (UGA) and throughout Chelan County, WA.
Manson Urban Growth Area – Dark Sky Lighting Standards
Chelan County’s Manson UGA regulations include a specific Dark Sky section that applies to all development within the Manson planning area. These standards are designed to minimize light pollution, prevent glare, and keep light from trespassing onto neighboring properties.
Key requirements include:
All exterior lighting must minimize light pollution
Lights must be fully shielded and downward-projecting
Shields must be opaque so no light escapes upward
Lighting must provide even illumination, especially where multiple lights are used
Lights must not trespass onto neighboring property
No blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights allowed in residential zones (except temporary holiday displays)
These standards apply to all new development and exterior lighting installations in the Manson UGA.
Here is the Manson UGA Code:
Dark Sky. All development within the Manson urban growth area shall comply with the following standards to reduce impacts to surrounding properties:
(A) All exterior lighting shall be used in a manner that minimizes light pollution.
(B) Lights shall be fully shielded and downward projecting. The shield must be opaque so that no light can pass through.
(C) When multiple lights are used, for a pedestrian or traffic purpose, they shall be placed in a manner that provides even illumination.
(D) Lights shall be positioned in a manner which does not trespass onto neighboring property.
(E) Within residential zoning districts, no blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights are permitted, except for temporary holiday displays.
Chelan County Outdoor Lighting Code
Chelan County requires outdoor lighting to be low-intensity, non-flashing, and directed toward your own property. Lights must be shielded or positioned so they don’t shine onto neighboring properties or create unnecessary glare.
The goal is simple: reduce light pollution, protect neighbors, and help preserve the natural night sky.
Key requirements include:
Outdoor lights must be low-intensity
Lights cannot be flashing
Lighting must be aimed toward your property
Fixtures must be shielded or positioned so light does not shine onto neighboring properties
Lighting should minimize glare
