Miami has sea turtle lighting ordinances that function as partial dark sky rules for coastal properties. Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 26 requires turtle-friendly lighting during nesting season (March-October) on beachfront properties. This effectively limits light pollution in coastal areas.
Miami-Dade County's Marine Turtle Protection ordinance requires beachfront properties to use turtle-friendly lighting (amber or red wavelengths, shielded and directed) during sea turtle nesting season (March 1 through October 31). This regulation reduces light pollution along the coast as a side benefit. Interior properties are not subject to turtle lighting rules but may have lighting requirements under Miami 21 for commercial developments. The city does not have a standalone dark sky ordinance for non-coastal areas.
Turtle lighting violations during nesting season carry significant fines under Miami-Dade County code and potential federal penalties under the Endangered Species Act. Commercial lighting violations are enforced through zoning compliance.
Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle dark sky rules.
See how Miami's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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