Bill > A04615

This bill establishes the Dark Skies Protection Act, which aims to regulate outdoor night lighting to preserve and enhance New York State's dark sky while promoting safety, conserving energy, and protecting wildlife. The legislation requires all outdoor lighting fixtures to be "shielded" (directing light downward) by January 1, 2028, covering residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal settings. Nonconforming lighting fixtures can remain in use if they are turned off between 11 PM and sunrise or are motion-activated with short durations. The bill provides numerous exemptions for specific lighting scenarios, including navigational lighting, emergency lighting, worker safety lighting, and certain low-wattage decorative lights. Outdoor recreational facilities are generally prohibited from illumination between 11 PM and 5 AM, with exceptions for ongoing events. The New York State environmental conservation department is tasked with developing educational materials about light pollution reduction and providing guidance on compliant lighting fixtures. Municipalities can maintain their own equally or more stringent light pollution regulations. The act recognizes the broader environmental and aesthetic benefits of reducing unnecessary nighttime illumination, offering a comprehensive approach to managing outdoor lighting to minimize its negative impacts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4615