Plano's zoning ordinance includes outdoor lighting standards for new development. Commercial and multi-family projects must submit lighting plans showing shielded, downward-directed fixtures. Plano does not have a formal dark sky ordinance but addresses light pollution through its development standards. The city's proximity to the Dallas metroplex means regional light pollution is significant.
Plano's outdoor lighting regulations aim to reduce light pollution, glare, and light trespass. New and replacement outdoor lighting fixtures must be fully shielded (full cut-off) to direct light downward and prevent upward light escape. Maximum illumination at property boundaries is limited to 0.5 foot-candles for residential zones and 1.0 foot-candles for commercial zones. Decorative uplighting of buildings and landscapes is restricted to low-wattage warm-color fixtures (3000K or below) aimed to avoid sky glow. Parking lot lighting must meet minimum safety levels without over-illumination. LED conversions must maintain warm color temperatures. New commercial developments submit lighting plans with photometric studies. South Central's astronomical and ecological interests support dark sky preservation.
Non-compliant fixtures: 90-day retrofit notice, then $100–$500 fine. Light trespass exceeding limits: $75–$250 per occurrence after notice. New construction with non-compliant lighting: certificate of occupancy withheld.
Plano, TX
Plano's zoning and property maintenance codes do not restrict residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays at single-family homes. Political s...
Plano, TX
Plano has no specific City ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. The principal restrictions come from HOA covenants under the Texas R...
Plano, TX
Plano has no citywide ordinance restricting residential holiday lights at single-family homes. Restrictions arise principally from HOA covenants under the Te...
Plano, TX
Outdoor kitchens in Plano require separate trade permits from Building Inspections: building permit for structural elements, mechanical permit for gas lines,...
Plano, TX
Plano has no specific ordinance regulating residential offset smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired pizza ovens at single-family homes. Multi-family balcony ...
Plano, TX
Plano adopts the 2021 International Fire Code through the Plano Code of Ordinances, enforced by Plano Fire-Rescue. IFC §308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking ...
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