89R15565 CS-D
By: Menéndez S.B. No. 2463
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a lighting reduction policy for nonessential outdoor
lighting owned or operated by a political subdivision.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Chapter 305, Local Government Code, is amended
by adding Subchapter C to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER C. LIGHTING
Sec. 305.051. LIGHTS OUT POLICY. (a) In this section:
(1) "Migration season" means the periods of time:
(A) beginning April 1 and ending June 1; and
(B) beginning September 1 and ending November 1.
(2) "Nonessential outdoor lighting" means lighting
that is viewable outdoors and is not considered essential for
safety or functionality, as determined by a political subdivision.
(b) The governing body of a political subdivision shall
adopt an ordinance, order, or regulation that requires nonessential
outdoor lighting owned or operated by the political subdivision to
be:
(1) turned off between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
during migration season;
(2) reduced in natural spaces, including in trees and
gardens; and
(3) as applicable, aimed downward and to use light
shields or motion detectors to reduce the amount of light shining
into the sky or trees.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.