In my garage, the light switch by the door is wired to an outlet on the ceiling. I've got two, inexpensive 4' fluorescent lighting fixtures plugged into that outlet. I know that wiring a fluorescent light to a motion sensor directly can be tricky. I don't know if that applies to an outlet.
Is it safe to switch out the switch that controls the outlet with a motion sensor like the Leviton "Occupancy Sensor"?
It shouldn't be a problem, if you purchase the proper motion sensor. When shopping, make sure the sensor specifically mentions compatibility with florescent lights.
The Heath Zenith Occupancy Motion Sensor Wall Switch
Controls up to 500 Watts incandescent and 400 Watts fluorescent lighting
According to it's documentation.
You can pick one up at Home Depot for ~$15.00 or Amazon for $32 USD (2018).
If you shop around, you can also find sensors that work with compact fluorescent lamps (CFL). Like this one from Hubbell Building Automation, Inc..
Like everybody is saying, look at the box. Some older technology will say for fluorescent with magnetic ballast only, but now all ballast sold in US and probably most countries are electronic now, so know what you have for a ballast when you buy.
There are 2 different types of technologies most used for commercial use. PIR or Passive InfraRed which looks for body heat, and Ultrasonic which actively sends out ultrasonic waves and then measure movement by calculating the difference in previous waves.
I would look for dual-technology sensors that takes both technologies and combines them into one sensor.
Fluorescent and motion sensors are really nothing new. A lot of commercial building use them in restrooms, and some power companies offer rebates for using motion sensors for controlling aisle lighting in big warehouses. Some detectors 'learn' from it's history to help eliminate nuisance trips.
I'm not sure why a fluoro would be "tricky" - a motion sensor is just like a switch toggling the circuit on/off. The one thing to note with fluoro's is that turning them on and off frequently drastically reduces their lifespan, so while this is technically possible, it is not recommended with this type of fixture/bulb.
If you would rather place something between the light and the wall, a motion sensor flood light rigged to control a power outlet in a separate box might work well... If you are comfortable and good with electrical work, this may be a cheap fix for you. Motion sensor lights can be purchased at Habitat Re-Stores or other re-use stores for a very low cost. I made one at one point with unused items laying around my house and a flood light from Habitat Re-Store. It works wonderfully to turn on the lights in a small shed.
Parts:
