Dear Contractors,

Please be reminded that it is your responsibility to ensure properties under construction remain in full compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations—including those related to sea turtle conservation.

Lighting Requirements:

All exterior lighting (including temporary construction lighting) that is directly or indirectly visible from the beach must comply with the following standards:

• Use long-wavelength amber, orange, or red LED or bulbs
• Fixtures must be downward-directed and shielded to prevent visibility from the beach

Non-compliant lighting poses a significant threat to nesting sea turtles and hatchlings.

For guidance, please refer to the FWC Wildlife Lighting Guide: https://myfwc.com/conservation/you-conserve/lighting/criteria/certified/

If you need assistance sourcing compliant lighting for permanent or temporary use, please contact the Town’s Environmental Project Manager at: Chadd@fmbgov.com

Help Protect Sea Turtle Hatchlings on Fort Myers Beach

This season alone, 23 hatchling disorientations have occurred—leading many baby turtles away from the Gulf and onto Estero Boulevard, often with fatal consequences.

Sea turtle hatchlings are instinctively drawn to light, making unshielded or bright white lights particularly dangerous.

How You Can Help:

• Replace beach-facing exterior lights with amber or red LEDs
• Install blackout curtains or blinds on beach-facing windows
• Turn off unnecessary lights at night during nesting/hatching season
• Avoid the use of flashlights or camera flashes on the beach after dark

There are still 50+ nests left to hatch this season—please don’t wait to be contacted by the Town. Your proactive actions can truly make a difference.

Together, we can make Fort Myers Beach safer for sea turtles.

🌊 Your lights can save lives.