North Miami, FL Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

North Miami regulates outdoor lighting through its Code of Ordinances with particular attention to sea turtle protection given the city's proximity to Biscayne Bay and Atlantic beaches. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Model Lighting Ordinance provisions apply to coastal properties, requiring that outdoor lighting visible from sea turtle nesting beaches be minimized during nesting season (March 1 through October 31). Compliant fixtures must be shielded, downward-directed, and use long-wavelength amber or red light that is less disruptive to sea turtle hatchlings. The city's lighting regulations for commercial and multi-family development require full-cutoff or shielded fixtures that direct light downward and prevent glare and light trespass onto adjacent properties and public rights-of-way. Site lighting plans may be required as part of the site plan review process for new development. Parking lot lighting must provide adequate illumination for safety while minimizing off-site light pollution. Residential properties are generally subject to nuisance standards that prohibit lighting directed at or causing unreasonable glare onto neighboring properties. Floodlights and security lights on residential properties should be aimed downward and shielded to minimize impact on neighbors. North Miami does not have a comprehensive dark-sky ordinance, but the combination of sea turtle regulations and general nuisance standards provides significant outdoor lighting controls.