Bill > A00739

This bill directs the New York State Secretary of State, in consultation with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, the Commissioner of Transportation, and the Commissioner of General Services, to prepare and distribute a comprehensive outdoor lighting ordinance to cities, towns, and villages. The ordinance aims to reduce bright sources of glare that hinder visual performance, minimize light sources that waste energy, and decrease unnecessary sky glow. The bill defines key terms such as "glare" (light causing discomfort or reduced visibility) and "sky glow" (light directed upwards or sideways that reduces night sky visibility). It also updates lighting restrictions for state agencies, introducing detailed regulations for various types of outdoor lighting, including roadway, parking lot, facade, and sports field lighting. The new provisions specify requirements such as using fully shielded fixtures, limiting light trespass, controlling correlated color temperature (the color appearance of white light), and ensuring that light fixtures are not visible from wilderness or environmentally protected areas. The bill provides exceptions for emergency lighting, navigational systems, safety needs, and instances where compliant fixtures are significantly more expensive. These changes are designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce light pollution, and minimize unnecessary illumination in outdoor settings.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A739