A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to the maximum allowable illuminance of residential outdoor lighting fixtures

This bill would establish a maximum allowable illuminance of 1 footcandle (11 lux) for certain residential outdoor lighting fixtures. The illuminance limit would apply only to 1- and 2-family homes in low-density residential districts. Outdoor lighting fixtures that are government-operated, used to illuminate a parking lot or sidewalk shed, used for construction safety, part of lawful signs, or part of temporary ornamental displays would be exempt. The Department of Buildings would issue a civil penalty to violators, with the ability to reduce such penalty to $0 if the violator takes steps to prevent the light from shining onto neighboring properties by shielding, relocating, or removing the outdoor lighting fixture.

Official summary of legislation · NYC Council