Fayetteville, AR Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Fayetteville regulates outdoor lighting under Chapter 176 of the Unified Development Code, first adopted by Ordinance 4714 in 2005 and later amended. The stated purpose includes limiting glare and light trespass and reducing atmospheric light pollution. Section 176.05 requires outdoor lighting to be hooded, shielded, and aimed downward so illumination points only at the ground, and the hood must mask the direct horizontal surface of the light source. The ordinance applies to lighting on private and public property but expressly does not apply to single- or two-family residential dwellings, which are exempt from the hooding and shielding rules. Motion-sensor security lights that shut off within 12 minutes, seasonal decorations under 60 days, and downtown decorative street lighting are also exempt.