Carrollton vs Dallas
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Carrollton, TX and Dallas, TX?
Carrollton and Dallas have similar restriction levels.
Carrollton, TX
Dallas County
Carrollton regulates outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution and glare. Fully shielded fixtures required for new installations. Lighting must be directed downward and not trespass onto neighboring properties.
View full Carrollton rules →Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance. Site lighting is regulated under Development Code Sec. 51A-13.601, which requires all lighting fixtures to be full cutoff to minimize light spillage into the night sky and onto adjacent property. Only lighting used to accent architecture, landscaping, or art may be directed upward, and it must be aimed or shielded to minimize sky glow. Texas SB 1090 (2021) limits municipal authority to regulate outdoor lighting except for certified or aspiring Dark Sky Communities.
View full Dallas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carrollton | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Fixtures | Fully shielded required | - |
| Direction | Downward only | - |
| Color Temp | 3000K or below preferred | - |
| Topic | Dark Sky Rules | - |
| Code Section | - | Sec. 51A-13.601 (Site Lighting) |
| Full Cutoff | - | Required for all lighting fixtures |
| Upward Light | - | Only for architectural/landscape accents, shielded |
| State Law | - | TX SB 1090 limits local lighting regulation |
| Dark Sky Status | - | Dallas is not a certified Dark Sky Community |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carrollton FAQ
What does fully shielded mean?
The fixture must direct all light downward with no light emitted above the horizontal plane. This prevents glare and sky glow while still providing ground illumination.
Can my neighbor's lights shine into my yard?
Most codes prohibit light trespass onto neighboring properties. Contact Carrollton code enforcement if outdoor lights from adjacent properties create a nuisance.
Dallas FAQ
Does Dallas have a dark sky ordinance?
Not a standalone ordinance, but Sec. 51A-13.601 requires full cutoff fixtures and limits upward-directed lighting. Texas SB 1090 restricts municipal authority over outdoor lighting regulation.
What is a full cutoff light fixture?
A fixture that directs all light downward with no emissions above the horizontal plane. Dallas requires these to minimize light spillage into the night sky and onto neighboring properties.
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