Hillsborough County LDC §6.11.08 requires full cutoff fixtures in most commercial and multifamily zones. Coastal sea turtle lighting restrictions apply March 1 through October 31 on beaches and within line-of-sight of Tampa Bay/Gulf shorelines per FL §161.163.
Hillsborough County outdoor lighting rules focus on two goals: reducing light pollution and protecting sea turtles. Commercial and multifamily exterior lighting must use full cutoff (IESNA compliant) fixtures with no light emitted above horizontal plane. Residential is largely unregulated except near coastlines. Sea turtle nesting season (March 1 to October 31) triggers stricter rules - shielded long-wavelength lights (amber/red, 560nm+), no direct beach illumination, no interior lights visible from beach. FL Fish and Wildlife Commission and Hillsborough Environmental Protection Commission jointly enforce. Applies primarily to Apollo Beach and southern coastal communities.
Non-cutoff commercial fixture: 250 dollar fine per fixture. Sea turtle violation: 500-5,000 dollars per FL §161.163. Federal ESA violation possible for turtle harm.
Hillsborough County, FL
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