Barrier Island Lighting Ordinance
The amended Barrier Island Lighting Ordinance was passed in July 2023 and includes new regulations for Perdido Key properties south of Semmes Rd and updated guidance for Pensacola Beach properties. Lighting requirements outlined in the ordinance are effective immediately for new construction. Existing properties on both islands have until January 1, 2028, to come into compliance.
Pensacola Beach & Santa Rosa Island Properties: any light directly or indirectly visible from the marine beach must utilize wildlife-friendly lighting described below.
Perdido Key (South of Semmes Rd) Properties: all exterior lighting must utilize wildlife-friendly lighting described below and no light may be visible outside the development footprint (permanently impacted area consisting of the home/structure, driveways and parking areas, pools, deck and other manmade features).
For more provisions and exceptions, read the full ordinance here.
Wildlife Lighting Basics:
Keep it Low: Fixtures and light sources should be mounted as low as safely possible and utilize the lowest wattage or lumens for the intended purpose.
Keep It Long: Bulbs and fixtures must produce long wavelength light (<580nm) without the use of filters or lenses. Long wavelength bulbs appear red or amber in color. Yellow bug bulbs, color changing, or coated novelty/party bulbs may appear the correct color but are usually not the correct wavelength.
Keep It Shielded: Light sources should be enclosed in a full cut off fixture. Appropriate fixtures should shield the light source from being directly visible and prevent light from being broadcasted above the horizontal plane.
A number of local and chain retailers carry appropriate fixtures. They may be marketed as Wildlife-Friendly, Sea Turtle-Friendly or Dark Sky. For a list of certified and approved fixtures, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website here.