Pittsburgh participates in Lights Out programs to reduce migratory bird collisions, and federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act protections under 16 U.S.C. §703 apply to nest disturbance, supplemented by Game Commission rules for resident species.
Pittsburgh sits on the Atlantic Flyway and partners with the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania on Lights Out Pittsburgh, asking downtown buildings to dim or extinguish unnecessary lighting during spring and fall migration to reduce collisions with glass facades. Federal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, 16 U.S.C. §703, prohibit disturbing nests of most native species. Pennsylvania state law adds protection for resident songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl. New Pittsburgh construction is encouraged but not yet required to use bird-friendly glazing patterns. Title 9 tree protections also limit nesting season disturbance.
Federal MBTA take violations carry criminal misdemeanor exposure and per-bird fines; state Game Code adds parallel summary offense penalties for disturbing protected species.
Pittsburgh, PA
Wildlife rehabilitators operating in Pittsburgh must hold a Pennsylvania Game Commission permit under 34 Pa.C.S. §2901, with additional federal permits for m...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh does not have a dedicated dark sky ordinance. Outdoor lighting is regulated through zoning code provisions and building standards. Commercial deve...
See how Pittsburgh's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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