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Ormond Beach, FL Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

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Key Facts

State Law: F.S. §161.163
Nesting Season: May 1 - Oct 31
Required LED: Amber/red 560nm+
Coastal Cities: Strict enforcement
Inland: General glare rules

Summary

Volusia County enforces sea turtle lighting standards under F.S. §161.163 along its 47-mile Atlantic coast. Fully shielded, long-wavelength (amber/red) fixtures required in coastal jurisdictions. Inland areas have general glare/trespass rules.

Full Breakdown

Volusia County Code Ch. 72 Article XII and municipal ordinances in Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, New Smyrna Beach, and Ormond-by-the-Sea implement F.S. §161.163 sea turtle lighting protections. Requirements apply May 1 through October 31 annually during sea turtle nesting. All light visible from the Atlantic beach must be: (1) fully shielded from the beach side, (2) low-mounted, (3) long-wavelength amber/red LED at 560nm+ or filtered, or (4) turned off. New beachfront construction must submit lighting plans with building permits. Inland Volusia (DeLand, Deltona, unincorporated western areas) follows general LDC glare and light-trespass standards rather than strict dark-sky rules. Parking lot lighting has pole height limits (typically 20-30 feet) and must not spill onto residential zones. LED retrofits on beachfront must meet Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) 'Model Lighting Ordinance for Marine Turtle Protection' standards.

Violations & Fines

Non-compliant beachfront lighting during nesting season: fines $50-$500 per night per fixture, federal ESA liability up to $50,000 for takes. Inland glare violations: notice and 30-day correction. Commercial non-compliance: permit review/revocation possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do inland Volusia areas like Deltona have dark-sky rules?

Not specifically. Inland Volusia enforces general light-trespass and glare standards through the LDC, but doesn't have the strict amber/red LED requirements that apply to the beachfront under F.S. §161.163.

Can I use regular white LED bulbs on my beachfront condo balcony?

No, not May 1 through October 31 if visible from the beach. You must use amber/red turtle-safe LEDs, shield the fixture, or turn it off. Violations can draw both county citations and federal Endangered Species Act penalties.

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Ormond Beach, FL Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

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