Dark Sky Rules: Lewisville vs Little Elm
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Lewisville, TX and Little Elm, TX?
Lewisville has fewer restrictions than Little Elm.
Lewisville, TX
Denton County
Lewisville does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance, but outdoor lighting is regulated through zoning standards in the Unified Development Code Chapter 114. Commercial and multifamily developments must use full-cutoff fixtures that direct light downward and minimize upward emission, with light levels at property lines adjacent to residential zones limited to 0.5 foot-candles. Residential exterior lighting is largely unregulated beyond general nuisance provisions in Chapter 42. The city does not mandate International Dark Sky Association-compliant fixtures or enforce specific color temperature limits. HOA communities such as Castle Hills and Valley Vista may regulate exterior lighting through their architectural review standards.
View full Lewisville rules →Little Elm, TX
Denton County
Little Elm requires shielded outdoor lighting fixtures and limits glare through its zoning standards. Light at residential property boundaries must not exceed one foot-candle.
View full Little Elm rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lewisville | Little Elm |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Sky Ordinance | None -- zoning standards apply | - |
| Commercial Shielding | Full-cutoff fixtures required | - |
| Property Line Limit | 0.5 foot-candles at residential boundary | 1 foot-candle max at residential boundary |
| Residential Rules | Nuisance standard only | - |
| Planning Division | (972) 219-3430 | - |
| Fixture Requirement | - | Fully shielded or full-cutoff |
| Review Stage | - | Site plan and building permit |
| HOA Standards | - | Often stricter than city code |
| Max Fine | - | Up to $500 per offense |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lewisville FAQ
Does Lewisville have a dark sky ordinance?
No. Lewisville does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance. Commercial and multifamily lighting must use shielded full-cutoff fixtures under zoning standards, but there is no citywide dark sky regulation.
Can I complain about a neighbors bright outdoor lights?
Excessive residential lighting may be addressed as a nuisance under Chapter 42 of the Code of Ordinances. Contact Code Enforcement at (972) 219-3437 to file a complaint if a neighbors lighting creates an unreasonable disturbance.
What are the rules for commercial parking lot lighting?
Commercial parking lot lighting must use full-cutoff fixtures directed downward. Light levels at property lines adjacent to residential zones must not exceed 0.5 foot-candles. Plans are reviewed during site plan approval.
Little Elm FAQ
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