Do Your Part to Keep Topanga’s Night Skies Dark
In addition to making it difficult to see the stars, outdoor light pollution wastes energy, affects human and animal circadian rhythms, increases predation, and disrupts ecosystems.
Moreover, research shows that much of the artificial light used at night is wasted by being poorly aimed, unnecessary, or unshielded, wasting money and energy.
Los Angeles County has a Rural Outdoor Lighting District to promote and maintain dark skies for the health and enjoyment of individuals and wildlife.
Here’s what you can do to follow best practices for preserving dark skies in Topanga:
- Shield lights to direct light downward and away from the sky.
- Angle lights in a way that prevents light from spilling onto adjacent properties.
- Turn exterior lights off by 10:00 p.m. unless they are controlled by a motion sensor.
- Subdued warm lighting is recommended at night (ex. lighting with the same color as incandescent bulbs).
- Purposeful lighting: only use the light you need.
Questions?
Contact Katie Lample of Los Angeles County Planning at 213-974-6476 or klample@planning.lacounty.gov.