Submit a code or statute for review and recognition

Working with DarkSky International to review and recognize locally enacted lighting codes or state/territory statutes is an excellent way to ensure the quality and effectiveness of outdoor lighting regulations. Earning DarkSky recognition can also serve as valuable promotional material for tourism, offering communities a chance to celebrate their commitment to a better nighttime environment.

There are two pathways for submitting drafted codes or statutes: an interim review and official recognition. While we do not require you to submit your code or statutes for review before applying for recognition, we highly recommend it. This proactive step helps ensure that your ordinances meet DarkSky’s standards and are effectively protecting the night. It also allows you to apply for official recognition with confidence, knowing your policies align with our guidelines. Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Submit a draft code or statute for interim review

DarkSky’s team will review draft codes or statutes, offering feedback and suggestions for areas needing improvement. This proactive review helps avoid potential challenges before the code or statute is presented to a governing body for official adoption and implementation. To submit a code or statute for review, click the link below to access the submission portal and pay the $250 review fee. If needed, our team can collaborate with you to refine the draft through an iterative feedback process, however each submission is considered a separate interim review and thus requires an additional submission fee.

Step 2: Seek adoption by your governing body

Once the draft of your code or statute is finalized, it’s time to submit it to your council or legislature for adoption. This process can take time and may involve additional adjustments requested by the governing organization. We strongly advise that you seek an interim review of the final language before adoption if you plan on submitting for DarkSky Recognition after adoption; otherwise, it may be at risk of not being acceptable to DarkSky. Only fully adopted codes and statutes are eligible for official DarkSky recognition. Once your code is officially adopted and implemented, you can proceed to Step 3.

Step 3: Apply for DarkSky Recognition

Once your code or statute is officially adopted , submit it along with official documentation from the governing body confirming full adoption to DarkSky for final review and recognition. To begin, click the link below to access the application portal, where you can submit your documents and pay the $750 application fee.

If the newly adopted law meets all the criteria within the templates, your municipality or state/territory will receive official DarkSky recognition starting on the enactment date of the law. DarkSky recognition is a testament to your community’s commitment to responsible outdoor lighting and preserving the night sky.