New York State Proposes Dark Skies Law to Limit Overnight Lighting

Proposed legislation would restrict outdoor lighting from 11 PM to 5 AM to reduce energy use and light pollution

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The New York State Dark Skies Protection Act aims to reduce light pollution and increase energy efficiency by limiting certain types of outdoor lighting during overnight hours. If passed, the law would place restrictions on how and when outdoor lights can be used across the state, including requiring all outdoor lighting fixtures to be shielded after January 1, 2028 and prohibiting illumination of outdoor recreational facilities between 11 PM and 5 AM except for events already in progress.

Why it matters

The goal of the proposed legislation is to reduce unnecessary energy use, limit light pollution in the night sky, and help preserve natural nighttime environments. While some towns already have local lighting ordinances, this proposal would create statewide standards for overnight lighting to address growing concerns from residents about excessive outdoor lighting disrupting their ability to enjoy the night sky and natural nighttime atmosphere.

The details

Under the proposed Dark Skies Protection Act, outdoor recreational facilities would not be allowed to operate lights between 11 PM and 5 AM unless an event had already started before 11 PM. The law would also require that "ALL OUTDOOR LIGHTING FIXTURES SHALL BE SHIELDED AFTER JANUARY FIRST, TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-EIGHT, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO OUTDOOR LIGHTING FIXTURES INSTALLED AT RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, AND MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES". Facilities that require lighting for safety reasons, such as highways, airports, and critical infrastructure, would likely be exempt from the restrictions.

  • The New York State Dark Skies Protection Act was introduced in February 2025.
  • The proposed legislation would require all outdoor lighting fixtures to be shielded after January 1, 2028.

The players

New York State Dark Skies Protection Act

A proposed bill that aims to reduce light pollution and increase energy efficiency by limiting certain types of outdoor lighting during overnight hours.

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What’s next

The New York State Dark Skies Protection Act has been referred to committee in the New York State Assembly, meaning it still has several steps to go before it could become law.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation highlights growing concerns about light pollution and the desire to preserve the natural nighttime environment, even in an urban state like New York. If passed, the Dark Skies Protection Act could set a precedent for other states to consider similar measures to reduce unnecessary outdoor lighting and its impacts.