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All Departments Administration Corrections Development Services Facilities Management Human Resources Information Technology Library Services Management and Budget Services Natural Resources Management Neighborhood and Human Services Parks and Recreation Public Safety Public Works Veterans Services Waste ServicesDuring the July 18 Escambia County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the board voted 5-0 to approve amendments to the Barrier Island Lighting Ordinance, which regulates coastal lighting on Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key. The amendment includes new lighting requirements for areas of Perdido Key south of Semmes Road and updates to the existing requirements on Pensacola Beach. Board approval was the final step after previous review by the Santa Rosa Island Authority and Escambia County Planning Board.
On Perdido Key, properties south of Semmes Road must utilize wildlife-friendly lighting for exterior lights to protect sea turtle and beach mice habitats. On Pensacola Beach, any light visible from the beach fronting the Gulf of Mexico must utilize wildlife-friendly lighting to protect sea turtle nesting habitat. The new lighting regulations will be effective for new construction once filed with the state; however, a five-year grace period gives existing properties until Jan. 1, 2028, to come into compliance. Click here to read the ordinance. Staff will be notifying affected properties in the coming weeks and providing technical assistance for properties looking to achieve compliance.
Both sea turtles and beach mice rely on naturally dark skies and are negatively impacted by excessive artificial lighting. Artificial lighting can deter nesting sea turtles and cause both adults and hatchlings to disorient away from the water and towards human structures and roadways. Beach mice are nocturnal, and excessive artificial light can deter normal foraging behaviors and increase predation risk. Wildlife- or turtle-friendly lighting utilizes long wavelength, low wattage and fully shielded light fixtures, which reduces the amount of light visible to wildlife.
For questions about the ordinance or wildlife-friendly lighting, please contact Samantha Bolduc at smbolduc@myescambia.com or 850-595-3460.
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