Night Sky Program

About the Program

Category: County Resiliency (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

Lighting is an important aspect to Broward County’s residents and visitors for safety, security, livability, and enjoyment. The inappropriate or excessive use of artificial light, commonly referred to as light pollution, can have serious environmental consequences for humans, wildlife, and our climate.In 2015, Broward’s Environmental Planning and Community Resilience Division began to commence dialogue with local planners, architects, recreation managers, and the public on the benefits of reducing excessive or misplaced light. Four priorities were identified: 1) ensure County facilities meet dark sky guidelines; 2) ensure utility’s investments in LED conversions provide safe street lighting; 3) provide a model code for cities; and 4) update sea turtle lighting policies in the County Code of Ordinances to comply with state rule and to reflect updated regulations in accordance with the endangered species act. Night-Friendly Lighting policies were then incorporated into the Broward County Climate Action Plan, Land Use Plan, Comprehensive Plan and Code of Ordinances. In support of monitoring the success of policy implementation, a Sky Quality Monitoring Program was launched. Sky Quality Meters were installed at parks, libraries, and other county-owned facilities throughout the community to assess Broward County’s night sky quality and measure progress in reducing light pollution over time.