Sea Turtle Lighting Info & Tips
So, Why Bother Protecting Sea Turtles?
Jellyfish Control
Sea turtles help regulate the populations of their prey. This can prevent overgrazing by herbivores and control the proliferation of jellyfish, which can have negative impacts on fisheries and ecosystems.
Limit Beach Erosion
Sea turtle nesting activities help to aerate and fertilize the sand, which can aid in dune formation and stabilization. Healthy dunes serve as natural barriers against coastal erosion and storm surges.
Enhanced Property Values
The presence of sea turtles can enhance the appeal of coastal properties. Buyers and renters may be more inclined to choose properties in areas known for their commitment to environmental conservation.
Healthy Tourism
Sea turtles are a major attraction for tourists and nature enthusiasts. A healthy sea turtle population can drive increased a healthier local economy through tourism dollars.
Learn More About Sea Turtles & Conservancy Efforts
Click below to link to additional information from unaffiliated sites explaining the importance of protecting sea turtles (opens to a new page).
Lighting Requirements & Regulations
Sea turtle lighting ordinances aim to reduce the negative impact of artificial lighting on these endangered creatures. The specific requirements of these ordinances can vary by location and are typically designed to align with the needs of local sea turtle species and nesting behaviors. Here are some common elements that sea turtle lighting ordinances may require.
1. Use Low Intensity Certified Sea Turtle Bulbs
Select certified sea turtle-friendly bulbs or fixtures that meet the local requirements. These bulbs are typically low-intensity, long-wavelength, and designed to minimize light spillage.
2. Install Low To The Ground
Position the light fixtures as low to the ground as possible. Mount them at or near ground level to reduce the upward spread of light.
3. Use Shielded Fixtures
Use shielded fixtures that are designed to prevent light from escaping upward or outward. These fixtures help to concentrate the light in the intended direction and reduce light spillage.
4. Direct Light Away From Beach
Aim the fixtures in a way that directs light away from the beach and the ocean. The light should be focused on the areas where it’s needed, such as paths, parking lots, or structures.
5. Use Timers Or Motion Sensors
When possible, use timers or motion sensors to control the lighting. This allows you to provide lighting only when it’s necessary while extending the life of your bulbs.
Learn More About Sea Turtles Lighting & Installation
Click below to link to additional information from sites explaining how to best position and install sea turtle lighting.
Legal Compliance
Avoid Fines & Penalties
In addition to federal, state, and local regulations regarding the disturbance of sea turtle nests, coastal communities across the country have enacted wildlife lighting ordinances, requiring the use of certified lighting devices along coastal shorelines.
Fines
Fines are a common penalty for violating lighting regulations designed to protect sea turtles, with some fines accruing daily. The amount of the fine can vary widely depending on the specific violation, local regulations, and the governing authority.
Legal Action
In cases where sea turtle nests or hatchlings are harmed or destroyed due to non-compliant lighting, authorities may purue civil or even crimnal charges, and the responsible party might be required to pay restitution for conservation efforts or habitat restoration.
Permit Denial
Authorities might deny permits for new construction or renovations if the project does not comply with sea turtle-friendly lighting requirements, resulting in significant financial and logistical consequences for property owners or developers.
Learn More About Sea Turtles Ordinances & Compliance
Click below to link to additional information from unaffiliated sites linking to ordinances and news reports on enforcement (opens to a new page). Note this page may contain links to dated or incomplete material.
- Florida Certified Lighting
- South Carolina Sea Turtle Lighting Ordiances
- Dim those bright lights or face $1,000 a day in fines on Hollywood beach
- Sea Turtle Season in Florida Means Lights Out For Area Beaches
- Marco Island Condos Fined $4K For Sea Turtle Lighting Violations
- Lights Out! Sea Turtle Nesting Season in South Carolina Begins May 1
- Fish & Wildlife cracking down on condo lights impacting sea turtle hatching in Alabama
Lighting Impact On Other Wildlife
Traditional bulbs affect the circadian rhythm of wildlife beyond turtles, especially nocturnal wildlife, resulting in altered behavior and reduced functioning of wildlife. Traditional bulbs are also thought to attract curious wildlife closer to homes, resulting in curious and sometimes unwanted animals in close proximity to your home.
Protect Wildlife.
Protect Yourself.
Using Sea Turtle Bulbs, you can protect other wildlife while also protecting your home, decreasing human and wildlife interaction which leads to a healthier and more diverse ecosystems.
And an added bonus: using low intensity bulbs like those offered through SeaTurtleBulbs.com means less bugs bugging you!