Denton, TX Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Light trespass cap
- 1 foot-candle at property line
- Fixture type
- Full cutoff, shielded, downcast required
- Parking pole height
- Max 25 feet
- Parking illuminance min
- At least 2 foot-candles
Summary
Denton's Development Code requires full cutoff, shielded, downcast fixtures for parking lots and pedestrian paths, capping light spillover onto neighboring properties at one foot-candle at the property line.
Except in the RR, R1, R2, and R3 zoning districts, sidewalks, internal pedestrian paths, and bicycle paths shall be lit with full cutoff shielded and downcast fixtures no more than 16 feet tall and providing consistent illumination of at least one foot-candle on the walking surface. Lighting along public rights-of-way and landscaped areas for a specific development shall be designed uniformly. Light spillover onto adjacent properties shall not exceed one foot-candle at any property line, except where the property line is adjacent to walkways, driveways, and streets or in nonresidential developments comprised of multiple lots, and when state and federal regulations apply.
Parking Area Lighting
Pole Height
Parking area lighting fixtures shall not exceed 25 feet in height.
Shielding of Lights
Parking area lighting shall be full cutoff shielded and downcast fixtures. The source of light on any fixtures on a nonresidential use adjacent to a single-family, duplex, or townhouse use shall be shielded from sight. Lighting fixtures for canopies or similar structures shall be flush-mounted or recessed above the lower edge of the canopy.
Illuminance
Full Breakdown
Denton's Development Code requires exterior lighting for parking areas, sidewalks, and pedestrian paths to use full cutoff, shielded, downcast fixtures, with parking lot poles capped at 25 feet. Light spilling onto adjacent property lines cannot exceed one foot-candle, except at walkways, driveways, and streets. Building-mounted wall packs are banned unless their cutoff angle eliminates glare beyond the property line, and decorative lighting must be cast only against the building surface.
Violations & Fines
Violating shielding, height, or foot-candle spillover limits blocks certificate of occupancy or site plan approval and can trigger code enforcement action against the property owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Denton require dark-sky-friendly outdoor lighting?
Are residential porch and soffit lights regulated?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Denton to another location·View the Texas outdoor lighting overview
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