Clearwater vs Dunedin
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Dunedin, FL?
Dunedin has fewer restrictions than Clearwater.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater enforces a sea turtle lighting ordinance under Chapter 49 that requires shielded, long-wavelength fixtures along the Gulf coast from May through October during nesting season.
View full Clearwater rules →Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin regulates outdoor lighting through its Land Development Code and zoning chapters, requiring shielded fixtures, glare control, and sea-turtle-friendly lighting in coastal areas. The city is not a designated International Dark Sky community but enforces Florida's coastal lighting model ordinance.
View full Dunedin rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Dunedin |
|---|---|---|
| Nesting season | May 1 - Oct 31 | - |
| State statute | FS 161.163 | - |
| Wavelength | 560 nm or longer (amber/red) | - |
| Shielding | Full cutoff required | - |
| Full cutoff required | - | Commercial and multi-family |
| Coastal turtle rules | - | May 1 - Oct 31 |
| Plan review | - | Required at site-plan stage |
| Code chapters | - | Chapters 103-107 LDC |
| Dark Sky designation | - | Not currently certified |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
What lights are allowed on Clearwater Beach during turtle season?
Only fully shielded, low-mounted fixtures using amber or red LEDs at 560 nm or longer are allowed from May 1 through October 31. The bulb itself must not be visible from the beach.
Do I have to turn off interior lights for sea turtles in Clearwater?
Yes, if interior lights are visible from the beach. Use blackout curtains, tinted window film, or move lamps away from windows during nesting season to comply with Chapter 49.
Dunedin FAQ
Does Dunedin have a dark-sky ordinance?
Dunedin is not an International Dark Sky community, but the Land Development Code requires shielded, low-glare lighting and Florida's coastal model ordinance applies near the Gulf.
What lighting rules apply during sea turtle nesting season?
From May 1 through October 31, beachfront properties must use shielded amber lighting, low mounting heights, and tinted windows to prevent disorienting nesting and hatchling sea turtles.
Can my business install bright LED parking lot lights?
Only if the fixtures are full-cutoff and meet the Land Development Code's glare, light-trespass, and uniformity standards reviewed at site-plan approval.
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