A New Law Will Soon Darken Maine Skies

If you’ve lived in Maine for more than a few minutes, you already know… our nights are kind of a big deal.

Now, a new state law is looking to keep it that way.

According to Maine Public, a new law seeks to fight light pollution.

The measure would require certain outdoor lighting across Maine to be dimmed at night, mainly to protect wildlife and preserve those dark, star-filled skies we all love.

According to Francesca Gundrum with Maine Audubon, darkness should be treated like any other natural resource and needs protection, which means putting limits on things like light pollution.

This wouldn’t impact your backyard floodlight.  It’s focused on publicly funded lighting like streetlights, schools, and town offices.  New or replacement fixtures would need to meet standards from the Illuminating Engineering Society.

Gundrum also explained the idea is simple: use warmer, shielded lights and things like timers, which can cut energy costs and reduce harm to wildlife.

There are some exceptions, including sports lighting, emergency situations, and highway safety.

Supporters, including astronomers and environmental groups, say too much artificial light can throw off ecosystems and take away from Maine’s natural night sky.

State Rep. Laurie Osher of Orono, who sponsored the bill, noted that even though it applies to public lighting, it could encourage homeowners to rethink their own setups. She also pointed out that brighter isn’t always better, explaining that overly bright lighting can actually make it harder for people to see and may reduce safety instead of improving it.

The bill is one of several that will become law without a signature from Janet Mills.

It is important to note that the rollout will be slow.  Beginning October 1st, any new fixtures, or replacement fixtures, will need to meet the new requirements.  Additionally, by September of 2026, municipalities will need to have a plan in place to deal with these changes.

You can read the full verbiage of the bill HERE

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