2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26104728D

HOUSE BILL NO. 407

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 12, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Title 10.1 a chapter numbered 10.4, consisting of a section numbered 10.1-1028, relating to light pollution education and dark sky preservation.

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Patron—Reid

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Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Title 10.1 a chapter numbered 10.3, consisting of a section numbered 10.1-1028, as follows:

§ 10.1-1028. Light pollution education and dark sky preservation.

A. As used in this section:

"Dark Sky Preserve" means an area designated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation pursuant to subsection C.

"Light pollution" means the inappropriate or excessive use of artificial light that reduces the visibility of stars and other celestial objects in the night sky, interferes with astronomical observation, disrupts ecosystems, or impacts human health and safety.

"Outdoor lighting" or "outdoor lighting fixture" means any artificial light source installed outdoors that is intended to illuminate an area, object, or structure.

B. 1. The Department of Environmental Quality shall serve as the lead agency for public education and outreach related to light pollution.

2. The Department of Environmental Quality, in coordination with the Department of Energy, the Department of Wildlife Resources, and the Department of Conservation and Recreation, shall develop and implement an education and outreach program to:

a. Inform the public about the impacts of light pollution on public health, safety, wildlife, and the environment;

b. Promote best practices for outdoor lighting, including energy-efficient and properly shielded outdoor lighting fixtures; and

c. Encourage voluntary adoption of lighting practices that reduce light pollution and energy waste.

3. Educational materials may include brochures, online resources, and presentations developed in partnership with local governments, schools, and astronomical societies.

4. The Department of Environmental Quality shall collaborate with the Virginia Association of Counties, the Virginia Municipal League, and professional associations to promote voluntary adoption of local ordinances or lighting guidelines that align with DarkSky International principles.

C. The Department of Conservation and Recreation, in consultation with DarkSky International, the Virginia Association of Astronomical Societies, and local communities, may designate qualifying areas within the Commonwealth as Dark Sky Preserves.

To qualify for designation, an area shall demonstrate:

1. Natural darkness and night sky substantially free from artificial light intrusion;

2. Educational or scientific value and opportunities for astronomy, research, or public education;

3. Public access and availability for educational, recreational, or scientific use; and

4. Community support, including demonstrated endorsement by the affected local government and community stakeholders.

D. A Dark Sky Preserve designation shall be voluntary and advisory and shall not create additional land use or lighting restrictions beyond those established by local ordinance.

E. The Department of Conservation and Recreation shall maintain a publicly accessible list and map of designated Dark Sky Preserves.

2. That the provisions of this act shall become effective on January 1, 2027.