Proposing a Massive State-Wide ‘Lights Out’ Rule After 11 PM

 If you’ve ever looked up at the night sky in Manhattan and wondered where the stars went (hint: they’re hiding behind a thick layer of “sky glow”), a new law might be about to change your view forever.

A proposed piece of legislation known as the New York State Dark Skies Protection Act is currently making its way through Albany, and it could mean big changes for how the city—and the rest of the state—looks after the sun goes down.

What is the “Dark Skies” law?

The goal of the bill is simple: reduce light pollution and stop wasting energy.

Introduced by State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Deborah Glick, the act aims to preserve the “aesthetic qualities of the night sky” while protecting local wildlife (especially our migratory bird friends who often get confused by the bright lights of the Big Apple).

Here are the main details:

If passed, the law would implement some pretty strict rules for outdoor lighting across New York:

• Shielded Lighting: By January 1, 2028, all outdoor lighting fixtures—residential, commercial, and municipal—would need to be “shielded.” This means the light must be directed downward, rather than spilling out sideways or into the sky.
• Lights Out After 11 PM: Outdoor recreational facilities (think amphitheaters, arenas, and parks) would have to turn off their lights between 11 p.m. and 5 am, unless an event is already in progress.
• Automatic Shutoffs: Non-compliant lights would be allowed only if they are motion-activated or programmed to shut off automatically during those late-night hours.

Why is this happening now?

As reported by WYRK, many residents have expressed frustration with excessive “light trespass”—that annoying neighbor with a floodlight that shines directly into your bedroom window.

Beyond being a nuisance, the bill’s sponsors point out that light pollution disrupts human circadian rhythms, wastes massive amounts of electricity, and contributes to the deaths of thousands of birds who collide with illuminated buildings during migration.

Will the city go completely dark?

Don’t worry, we aren’t turning into a scene from A Quiet Place. The law includes several exemptions for safety and essential services:

• Highways and Airports: Navigational lighting isn’t going anywhere.
• Emergency Services: Police, fire, and medical lighting will remain fully operational.
• Historical Landmarks: Property owners can apply for exemptions for culturally or historically significant lighting.
• Times Square? The bill specifically notes exemptions for certain high-density areas (like those defined by NYC’s zoning for Times Square).

Where does the bill stand?

Right now, the Dark Skies Protection Act has been sent to the Environmental Conservation Committee in Albany, where lawmakers will decide whether it moves forward.

https://secretnyc.co/new-york-state-dark-skies-protection-act/