Suggestions for Managing Outdoor Lighting

Our CC&Rs state that “Any light used to illuminate signs, parking areas or for any other
purposes shall be so arranged as to reflect the light away from, and not be obtrusive to, other
lots and away from the vision of passing motorists.” The Management Committee (Board of
Directors) is charged with developmental approval and architectural control which includes
lighting.

We suggest that owners take the following into consideration for “neighbor friendly” outdoor
lighting.

Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting
If light is deemed useful and necessary, follow these guidelines to prevent, or when that’s not
possible, minimize light pollution:

USEFUL – All light should have a clear purpose.
Before installing or replacing a light, determine if light is needed and, if so, what type. For example, if there are four lights under an eave, could you get by with two?  Consider how the use of light will impact the area, including wildlife and the environment. Consider using reflective paints or self-luminous markers for signs and steps to reduce the need for permanently installed outdoor lighting.

TARGETED – Light should be directed only to where needed.
Use shielding and careful aiming to target the direction of the light beam so that it points
downward and does not spill beyond where it is needed.

LOW LIGHT LEVELS – Light should be no brighter than necessary.
Use the lowest light level required. Be mindful of surface conditions as some surfaces may
reflect more light into the night sky than intended.

CONTROLLED – Light should be used only when it is useful.
Use controls such as timers or motion detectors to ensure that light is available when it is
needed, dimmed when possible, and turned off when not needed. This is particularly
important for renters who are not likely to know that controls well and/or appreciate the
magnitude of the problem.

COLOR – Use warmer color lights where possible.
Warm lighting (longer wavelength) emits a color nearer to natural (reddish) lighting. Limit the amount of cool lighting (looks artificial blue-violet) to the least amount needed.

Sincerely,

The HOA Board
Links:
https://www.darksky.org/our-work/lighting/public-policy/homeowners-associations/
https://www.darksky.org/our-work/lighting/lighting-principles/