Clearwater vs Pinellas Park
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Pinellas Park, FL?
Pinellas Park 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 →Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas County
Pinellas Park requires outdoor lighting to use cut-off fixtures so illumination does not spill onto adjacent lots or roadways, under the Land Development Code. The city does not have a formal Dark Sky designation but enforces shielding and glare-control standards.
View full Pinellas Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Pinellas Park |
|---|---|---|
| Nesting season | May 1 - Oct 31 | - |
| State statute | FS 161.163 | - |
| Wavelength | 560 nm or longer (amber/red) | - |
| Shielding | Full cutoff required | - |
| Fixture type | - | Cut-off / shielded required |
| Code chapter | - | Chapter 18 (LDC) |
| Glare rule | - | No driver-vision interference |
| Dark Sky status | - | Not formally designated |
| Sea turtle lighting | - | Coastal county rules apply |
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.
Pinellas Park FAQ
Do I need a permit for new exterior house lighting?
Standard residential porch and yard lighting typically does not need a permit, but commercial lighting plans, parking lots, and new construction lighting must be reviewed under the Land Development Code.
Are LED floodlights allowed in residential yards?
Yes, if they are aimed downward, fully shielded, and do not project onto neighboring property or roadways. Improperly aimed floodlights can be cited as light trespass.
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