Maynard adopts dark‑sky lighting bylaw after extended debate

After an extended presentation and several hours of public comment, Maynard voters approved a new exterior‑lighting bylaw intended to reduce light pollution, protect night skies, improve safety and limit unnecessary energy use.

A presenter outlined the ordinance’s main provisions: new exterior fixtures must be shielded to direct light downward; lumen caps were proposed for residential (threshold guidance) and non‑residential fixtures; accent string lights would be limited in output; color temperature limits would favor warmer/amber hues; and existing fixtures would be grandfathered. The committee moved an amendment to exempt holiday lighting provided that decorative lighting be turned off between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.; the correction to the originally drafted hours (a scribal error that read 6 p.m.) was adopted first as a motion and then incorporated into the article language.

Supporters at the microphone argued that properly shielded, lower‑temperature lighting reduces glare that can contribute to accidents and helps preserve wildlife and the night sky. One resident said the change restores a public resource: “Protecting the night sky is about preserving something deeply human,” and urged voters to preserve the Milky Way for future generations.

Opponents raised concerns about property rights, enforcement practicality, impacts on existing approved projects and the ability of residents to decorate during holidays; several speakers urged neighbor‑to‑neighbor problem‑solving before formal enforcement.

Moderator Downey placed Article 25 on secret ballot (ballot 19). After votes were counted, the moderator announced the article passed (135 yes, 18 no). Town staff and the select board will publish the final bylaw text, a compliance guide and an enforcement/contact process on the town website for property owners and contractors.