Arlington does not have a comprehensive dark sky ordinance. The UDC includes outdoor lighting standards for commercial and industrial development to limit glare and spillover. Residential lighting is minimally regulated.
The UDC requires commercial and industrial outdoor lighting to be shielded and directed downward. Maximum illumination levels at property lines are specified for commercial development adjacent to residential areas. Residential lighting is subject to general nuisance provisions. Texas does not have statewide dark sky legislation. Arlington's urban setting in the DFW metroplex means significant ambient light.
Commercial lighting not meeting UDC standards may be cited through code compliance. Residential lighting causing a nuisance may be addressed under general nuisance provisions.
Arlington, TX
Arlington has no city ordinance regulating residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays on private property. Property maintenance rules under ...
Arlington, TX
Arlington has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatables are permitted on private property subject to rig...
Arlington, TX
Arlington has no city ordinance specifying installation dates, removal deadlines, or brightness limits for residential holiday light displays. Amplified outd...
Arlington, TX
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Arlington require multiple permits through the Community Development and Planning Department: a building permit for the structur...
Arlington, TX
Arlington has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Operation is governed by general nu...
Arlington, TX
Arlington adopts the 2018 International Fire Code under Arlington City Code Chapter 11. IFC § 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas contain...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Tarrant County.
See how other cities in Tarrant County handle dark sky rules.
See how Arlington's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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