Denton Development Code (Subchapter 19, Outdoor Lighting) establishes outdoor lighting standards that incorporate dark-sky principles for new development and major renovations. All new non-residential and multi-family lighting must be fully shielded to direct light downward and minimize skyglow. Denton adopted these standards to reduce light pollution affecting the University of North Texas observatory and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
Dentons outdoor lighting regulations in the Development Code require that all new or replaced outdoor lighting fixtures for commercial, industrial, multi-family, and institutional uses be fully shielded (full-cutoff) so that no light is emitted above the horizontal plane. Maximum mounting heights are specified by zoning district, typically 25 feet in commercial areas and 20 feet in areas adjacent to residential. Parking lot lights must use flat-lens fixtures directed downward. Decorative and accent lighting is permitted but must not produce glare visible from adjacent properties or public rights-of-way. Mercury vapor lamps are prohibited in new installations. The regulations apply to new construction and projects requiring site plan approval. Existing non-conforming fixtures are grandfathered unless the site undergoes a major renovation triggering compliance. Single-family residential properties are not directly regulated for dark-sky compliance under the Development Code, but HOAs like Robson Ranch may impose their own dark-sky covenants. Contact Development Services at (940) 349-8530 for lighting plan review.
Lighting installations that do not meet full-cutoff requirements will not receive site plan approval. Existing violations identified during inspections may require fixture replacement. Non-compliant lighting on commercial properties may result in code enforcement action. Mercury vapor fixtures must be removed when identified during permit review.
Denton, TX
Denton Code Sec. 6-9 prohibits any animal from creating noise that interferes with neighbors' reasonable enjoyment of their property. Residents within 300 fe...
Denton, TX
Denton Sec. 17-20 uses a reasonableness standard rather than fixed decibel limits for most noise sources. The one specific numeric limit is 70 dBA at the eve...
Denton, TX
Denton Code Ch. 17, Art. II (Sec. 17-20) prohibits noise of such character, intensity, and duration as to substantially interfere with comfortable enjoyment ...
Denton, TX
Denton DDC Sec. 7.12 requires RVs and boats stored behind the front building line on paved surfaces. Occupancy prohibited. 72-hr temp driveway use.
Denton, TX
Denton restricts vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVWR in residential zones. One light commercial vehicle allowed behind front building line on paved surface.
Denton, TX
Denton has no citywide overnight street parking ban. The 72-hour limit and residential permit zones near UNT/TWU are the primary restrictions.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Denton County.
See how other cities in Denton County handle dark sky rules.
See how Denton's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.