To protect endangered sea turtles that nest on the local beaches, and the hatchlings that emerge from those nests, the Town of Palm Beach requires all oceanfront property owners to ensure that artificial lights are not visible from the beach between March 1 and October 31.
Artificial lighting can confuse sea turtle hatchlings, causing them to move away from the ocean. Lights from buildings, homes, and landscaping can lead them inland, where they face dehydration, exhaustion, and predators. This disorientation is a major factor in the decline of sea turtle populations worldwide.
To comply with the Town’s Shielding of Light ordinance, oceanfront property owners must:
- Turn off lights that illuminate the beach or ocean
- Shield or redirect lighting so it is not visible from the shoreline
- Ensure outdoor lighting does not disturb nesting sea turtles or hatchlings during nesting season
For more information on Sea Turtle Nesting, please view the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website