Outdoor Lighting in Denton, TX (2026)
2 verified outdoor lighting rules for Denton, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
Denton Development Code (Subchapter 19, Outdoor Lighting) establishes outdoor lighting standards that incorporate dark-sky principles for new development and major renovations. All new non-residential and multi-family lighting must be fully shielded to direct light downward and minimize skyglow. Denton adopted these standards to reduce light pollution affecting the University of North Texas observatory and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
Denton Dark Sky and Outdoor Lighting Standards
Some RestrictionsLight Trespass
Denton Development Code and nuisance ordinance address light trespass -- unwanted artificial light spilling from one property onto another. New commercial and multi-family development must demonstrate that outdoor lighting does not exceed 0.5 foot-candles at the property line when adjacent to residential zones. Residential light trespass complaints between single-family neighbors are handled through the general nuisance provisions in Chapter 34.
Denton Light Trespass Regulations
Some RestrictionsLooking for Denton County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Denton city rules.
Outdoor Lighting in Denton County →