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A proposed state law called the “Dark Skies Protection Act” could soon require many outdoor lights across New York to shut off after 11pm, part of a broader effort to cut light pollution, protect wildlife and save energy.
The legislation was introduced in the New York State Senate by Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and several co-sponsors and would regulate outdoor lighting statewide—from residential floodlights and building uplighting to commercial spotlights and billboards. The goal is to “preserve and enhance the state's dark sky while promoting safety for people, birds and other wildlife, conserving energy and reducing our carbon footprint.”
Under the proposal, outdoor lighting fixtures that don’t meet new design standards would have to be turned off between 11 pm and sunrise, unless they are motion-activated lights that automatically shut off within 15 minutes. Basically, that permanently blazing backyard floodlight or decorative building spotlight might have to go dark overnight.
The bill would also require most outdoor lighting fixtures installed in New York to be “shielded,” meaning the light must be directed downward rather than upward into the sky, a common source of light pollution.
But don’t worry: Times Square won’t suddenly look like a blackout scene from a disaster movie. The legislation includes a long list of exemptions. Lighting required for airports, highways, construction sites, emergency services and certain safety uses would still be allowed. Seasonal decorative lights and small low-wattage fixtures would also be exempt. Additionally, outdoor sports venues could keep lights on past 11pm only long enough to finish games already in progress.
If the measure becomes law, the new requirements would take effect on January 1, 2028, giving property owners several years to update lighting fixtures or install timers and motion sensors.
Supporters say the push is about more than just seeing stars again. Artificial nighttime lighting has been linked to bird migration disruptions, wasted energy and sleep disturbances for humans. New York City alone sits along a major migratory bird corridor, where bright lights can disorient birds flying at night.
New York also wouldn’t be the first place to try it. Cities like Tucson, Arizona and Flagstaff (both near major observatories) have long enforced strict lighting rules and dozens of communities around the country now follow “dark sky” guidelines, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Still, the bill faces a long road before becoming law. It must pass both the State Senate and Assembly and then be signed by the governor. Like many environmental measures, it will likely spark debate between conservation groups and businesses concerned about safety and nighttime visibility.
If it does pass, though, the change could be simple: flip the switch and we’ll see New York’s night sky shine again.