Dunedin vs Pinellas Park
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Dunedin, FL and Pinellas Park, FL?
Dunedin and Pinellas Park have similar restriction levels.
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 →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 | Dunedin | Pinellas Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| 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.
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.
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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