Local rules only
Virginia
Last checked October 29, 2026
Virginia has two narrow provisions. Va. Code 2.2-1111 directs state purchasing rules to require state public bodies to buy only shielded outdoor light fixtures, with waivers for special needs or poor life-cycle cost. Va. Code 15.2-920 (1980, amended 1997) lets any locality regulate outdoor lighting within a half mile of planetariums, observatories, and meteorological laboratories. Nothing covers private lighting statewide.
| Statute | Citation | Year |
|---|---|---|
| State public bodies procure shielded outdoor light fixtures (opens in new tab) | Va. Code 2.2-1111(B)(3) | |
| Regulation of outdoor lighting near certain facilities (opens in new tab) | Va. Code 15.2-920 (1980, c. 512; amended 1997, c. 587) | 1980 |
Certified dark sky places in Virginia
- James River State Park
- Natural Bridge State Park
- Observatory Park at Turner Farm
- Rappahannock County Park
- Sky Meadows State Park
- Staunton River State Park
Bringing your own outdoor lighting up to the same standard? See Dark-Sky Friendly Outdoor Lighting.
Sources
- https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title2.2/chapter11/section2.2-1111/ (opens in new tab)
- https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title15.2/chapter9/section15.2-920/ (opens in new tab)
- https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/recreational-planning/document/vop-app-10-dark-skies.pdf (opens in new tab)
- https://www.ncsl.org/environment-and-natural-resources/states-shut-out-light-pollution (opens in new tab)