Clearwater vs Seminole
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Seminole, FL?
Seminole 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 →Seminole, FL
Pinellas County
Seminole's Land Development Code regulates outdoor lighting to minimize glare, light trespass, and skyglow. Coastal proximity to sea turtle nesting areas triggers additional Florida Fish and Wildlife lighting standards during nesting season.
View full Seminole rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Seminole |
|---|---|---|
| Nesting season | May 1 - Oct 31 | - |
| State statute | FS 161.163 | - |
| Wavelength | 560 nm or longer (amber/red) | - |
| Shielding | Full cutoff required | - |
| Shielded fixtures | - | Required commercial |
| Sea turtle season | - | May 1 - October 31 |
| Site plan review | - | Lighting checked |
| Skyglow restrictions | - | Yes |
| Daily fine | - | Up to $250 |
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.
Seminole FAQ
Does Seminole have dark sky lighting rules?
Yes, the Land Development Code requires shielded, downward-directed lighting for commercial properties, with photometric review during site plan approval.
Are there special rules for coastal areas?
Properties near nesting beaches must comply with sea turtle lighting rules between May 1 and October 31, requiring shielded amber lighting near the shore.
Do residential homes need to follow lighting codes?
Residential lighting standards are less strict but must not create nuisance light trespass on neighboring properties under general code provisions.
Compare other topics
See how Clearwater and Seminole compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool