Dark Sky Rules: Cary vs Raleigh
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Cary, NC and Raleigh, NC?
Cary and Raleigh have similar restriction levels.
Cary, NC
Wake County
Wake County UDO Article 7-72 sets outdoor-lighting performance standards: fixtures must be full-cutoff or shielded so that no light is emitted above the horizontal plane, lumens-per-acre caps apply by district, and pole heights are capped by zoning category.
View full Cary rules →Raleigh, NC
Wake County
Raleigh regulates outdoor lighting through UDO Article 7.2 to minimize light pollution, glare, and sky glow. New development and redevelopment must comply with outdoor lighting standards that include maximum illumination levels at property boundaries, full cutoff fixture requirements in many zones, and limits on mounting height. While Raleigh is not designated as a dark-sky community, the UDO's standards promote responsible outdoor lighting practices.
View full Raleigh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cary | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | UDO §7-72 | - |
| Fixture type | Full-cutoff required | - |
| Pole height | 16-35 ft by district | - |
| Lights Out season | Mar-May, Aug-Oct | - |
| Spillover | Capped to neighbor | - |
| Code Reference | - | UDO Article 7.2 — Outdoor Lighting |
| Fixture Type | - | Full cutoff required in many applications |
| Property Line Max | - | Limits on footcandles at property boundaries |
| Height Limits | - | Maximum mounting heights by zone |
| Dark-Sky Status | - | Not a designated dark-sky community |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cary FAQ
Can I install a bright security light on my house?
Yes, but the fixture must be shielded so light doesn't spill onto neighbors. Wake's UDO standards apply to fixtures over 1,800 lumens / ~150 watts equivalent.
Is there a residential curfew?
No required curfew, but Wake Audubon recommends dimming lights during migration for bird safety.
Do these rules apply to single-family homes?
Site lighting on residential lots is generally exempt unless the fixture creates a documented nuisance for neighbors.
Raleigh FAQ
Does Raleigh have dark-sky lighting requirements?
Raleigh's UDO includes outdoor lighting standards that limit glare and sky glow, including full cutoff fixture requirements and maximum illumination at property boundaries. However, Raleigh is not a certified dark-sky community.
Do these lighting rules apply to residential properties?
The UDO lighting standards primarily apply to new commercial and multi-family development. Single-family residential properties are generally not required to meet these standards unless part of a new subdivision plan.
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