New York considers Dark Skies Protection Act to regulate lighting

The Dark Skies Protection Act, comprising Senate Bill S9637 and Assembly Bill A4615, is moving through the New York State Legislature. If passed, the law would regulate outdoor night lighting across all 62 counties to reduce light pollution, protect wildlife, conserve energy, and improve public health.

Key provisions include a requirement that all permanent outdoor lighting fixtures be shielded to project light downward by January 1, 2028. Any unshielded or non-conforming fixtures that are not updated by this deadline would be required to be turned off between 11 p.m. and sunrise, or be fitted with motion sensors. Additionally, outdoor sports fields, arenas, and amphitheaters would be prohibited from being illuminated between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless an event is actively running past curfew.

The legislation includes several exemptions, such as federal and interstate highway signs, airport navigational and aviation safety lights, emergency response lighting, and temporary lighting required for worker safety. Low-wattage decorative and seasonal lighting would also be permitted.