St. Johns County warns residents to follow coastal lighting rules as sea turtle nesting season begins

Maggie Basilewicz, environmental specialist for St. Johns County, announced that sea turtle nesting season has begun on county beaches and runs from May 1 until Oct. 31. She said coastal lighting regulations and enforcement are in effect during that period to protect threatened and endangered sea turtle species.

Basilewicz said St. Johns County enforces a coastal lighting ordinance that applies to any property visible from the beach. "To comply with these regulations, you must follow the 3 golden rules for exterior lighting," she said, then listed specific steps residents and visitors can take to reduce light pollution on nesting beaches.

The three rules Basilewicz described are: keep lights low to the ground and low in wattage so they are less visible from the beach; use long-wavelength bulbs (true red, amber and orange), which sea turtles are much less affected by; and fully cover lights on all sides so they only shine downward to prevent light from spilling onto the beach. She also noted the county has interior lighting regulations and recommended closing blinds or curtains at dusk to keep light from shining onto the beach.

Basilewicz closed by reminding the public that "when in doubt, turn lights off because sea turtles dig the dark," urging compliance by coastal residents and visitors while nesting season is active. The announcement did not specify penalties or enforcement procedures for violations.