NYC has no dedicated dark sky ordinance, though the city has implemented LED streetlight conversions with downward-directed fixtures. The NYC Building Code requires outdoor lighting on new developments to minimize glare. NYC's light pollution levels are among the highest in the world, and advocacy groups have pushed for stronger regulations.
NYC does not have a standalone dark sky or light pollution ordinance comparable to those in some western municipalities. However, the NYC Zoning Resolution's sign regulations (Article VII) control illuminated sign brightness, and the Building Code's energy efficiency provisions (NYC Energy Conservation Code) require outdoor lighting to be designed to minimize waste and glare. The city's LED streetlight conversion program (replacing 250,000 sodium lights) uses downward-directed fixtures that reduce upward light scatter. The 2023 stretch energy code updates encourage reduced outdoor lighting power density. NYC Parks maintains lighting standards in parks with automatic shutoff after closing hours. The International Dark-Sky Association has advocated for stronger NYC regulations, particularly around waterfront areas where light pollution affects migratory birds. Local Law 118 of 2005 requires city-owned buildings to reduce light during bird migration season (Lights Out NYC program). Private building participation is voluntary.
No dark-sky specific penalties. Illuminated sign violations: DOB enforcement under ZR Article VII. Failure to comply with energy code lighting requirements: DOB penalties. City buildings non-compliant with Lights Out: no penalty (voluntary compliance for private buildings).
New York, NY
New York City enforces strict noise rules under Administrative Code Title 24, Chapter 2 (the NYC Noise Code, rewritten by Local Law 113 of 2005). Sound excee...
New York, NY
NYC bans commercial vehicles on residential streets 9 PM-5 AM and caps any commercial-vehicle parking at 3 hours per block (NYC Admin Code §19-170). 'Commerc...
New York, NY
In NYC residence districts, Zoning Resolution §23-44 limits fences in front yards to 4 feet above adjoining grade and permits walls up to 8 feet (not roofed ...
New York, NY
Section 161.05 of the New York City Health Code requires every dog in any public place, or in any open or unfenced area abutting a public place, to be effect...
New York, NY
All consumer fireworks are illegal in New York City, including sparkling devices that are legal in much of New York State. NYC Fire Code Section FC 5601.3.2 ...
New York, NY
New York City has no ordinance specific to residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on private property. Landmark Preservation Commiss...
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