Dark Sky Rules: McKinney vs Plano
How do dark sky rules rules compare between McKinney, TX and Plano, TX?
McKinney and Plano have similar restriction levels.
McKinney, TX
Collin County
McKinney does not have a formal dark-sky designation, but the Zoning Ordinance requires outdoor lighting be shielded and downward-directed in all districts. Commercial parking lot lighting must meet IES full cutoff standards and not exceed 0.5 footcandles at residential property lines.
View full McKinney rules →Plano, TX
Collin County
Plano's zoning ordinance includes outdoor lighting standards for new development. Commercial and multi-family projects must submit lighting plans showing shielded, downward-directed fixtures. Plano does not have a formal dark sky ordinance but addresses light pollution through its development standards. The city's proximity to the Dallas metroplex means regional light pollution is significant.
View full Plano rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McKinney | Plano |
|---|---|---|
| Cutoff | Full cutoff over 1,800 lm | - |
| Property Line | 0.5 fc max at residential | - |
| Canopy | Flat-lens recessed | - |
| Sports | Turn-off times required | - |
| Dark Sky | Not formally designated | - |
| Shielding | - | Required for new commercial development |
| Dark Sky Ordinance | - | No formal ordinance |
| Lighting Plans | - | Required for site plan review |
| Regional Context | - | Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex light pollution |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
McKinney FAQ
Who enforces this in McKinney?
McKinney code enforcement at (972) 547-7500 handles complaints.
Who enforces this in McKinney?
McKinney code enforcement at (972) 547-7500 handles complaints.
Plano FAQ
Does Plano have dark sky regulations?
Plano does not have a formal dark sky ordinance, but development standards require shielded, downward-directed lighting for new commercial and multi-family projects.
Is light pollution regulated in Plano?
Through development standards rather than a dedicated ordinance. New projects must submit lighting plans showing compliance with shielding and direction requirements.
Compare other topics
See how McKinney and Plano compare on other ordinance categories.
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