Monday, June 23, 2025

City Council Member Advocates for Dark Sky Initiative in Palo Alto

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The Palo Alto City Council is moving forward with a city ordinance aimed at reducing light pollution by regulating outdoor lighting. During an April 7 meeting, council members unanimously approved a motion by Council member Greer Stone to draft new lighting regulations, which include a midnight curfew for outdoor lights and a mandate to use lower-temperature bulbs that emit warm orange light. The proposal also specifies that outdoor light fixtures must be shielded to prevent upward light emissions and limit light spillover onto neighboring properties. If enacted, the rules would apply immediately to new constructions, while existing private residences would have a decade to comply. Proponents argue that these measures would benefit human health, reduce energy costs, and protect nocturnal wildlife, while balancing public safety concerns. Notably, these regulations would not extend to Stanford University, which is situated in unincorporated Santa Clara County.

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