Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Tarpon Springs 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 →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Tarpon Springs zoning code regulates outdoor lighting through performance standards in the Comprehensive Zoning and Land Development Code, with special coastal-lighting requirements protecting nesting sea turtles along Gulf-facing properties.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Nesting season | May 1 - Oct 31 | - |
| State statute | FS 161.163 | - |
| Wavelength | 560 nm or longer (amber/red) | - |
| Shielding | Full cutoff required | - |
| Code location | - | Zoning Code Articles II and IV |
| Fixture standard | - | Full cutoff or shielded |
| Turtle season | - | May 1 to October 31 |
| Coastal rules | - | Long-wavelength, low-mounted |
| Statewide overlay | - | Marine Turtle Protection Act |
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.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Do Tarpon Springs lighting rules apply to my single-family home?
Most performance lighting standards apply to new development and site plans, but coastal turtle-lighting rules apply to all properties in nesting habitat regardless of use type.
What is sea-turtle-friendly lighting?
Fixtures that are long-wavelength (amber or red), fully shielded, and mounted as low as possible, so light is not visible from the beach during nesting season.
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