Safeguarding our night sky
The Town of Huntsville is committed to fostering a dark sky-friendly community - a place where the natural nightscape is protected and cherished as part of our shared heritage. Our Outdoor Lighting By-law sets out the municipal regulations for responsible lighting and light pollution mitigation for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
What is light pollution?
Light pollution is the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally. When we over-light, fail to use timers and sensors, misdirect or use the wrong colour of light, we negatively affect many parts of our world.
Harmful effects of light pollution
Light pollution can seem subtle, but its impact is real and far reaching. Reducing light pollution benefits the environment, our health, and the community.
Disrupts Wildlife
Plants and animals depend on a daily light and dark cycle for life sustaining behaviours. Artificial light at night has adverse effects on many species.
Wastes energy and money
Most outdoor lighting is misdirected or does not achieve its intended purpose, wasting energy and money.
Robs us of our night sky
The starry night sky is symbolic of Huntsville’s deep connection with nature – but each year our night sky gets brighter and the stars less visible.
Harms human health
Studies indicate that artificial light at night disrupts humans’ natural circadian rhythms and systems, negatively affecting our health.
Steps to reducing light pollution at your home or business
Transitioning to dark sky-friendly lighting is easier than you might think – and it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Upgrading to fully shielded lights that direct light downward can be done with minimal effort and cost. Many affordable options are available locally, ensuring your outdoor spaces remain well-lit and environmentally responsible.
Make meaningful change in the community by reducing your light pollution in three simple steps:
Step 1
Learn about responsible outdoor lighting
Discover the five principles of outdoor lighting. These principles ensure outdoor light is only used when and where it is needed, and in ways that reduce light pollution and its harmful effects.
Useful
Use light only if it is needed. All light should have a clear purpose.
Targeted
Shield and aim your light so it only falls downward and where it is useful.
Low-Level
Light should be no brighter than necessary to save money and reduce glare.
Controlled
Light should only be on when needed. Use timers and motion sensors.
Warm-Coloured
Warm-coloured light causes less skyglow. Use amber-toned lighting when possible.
Step 3
Replace or adjust your outdoor light fixtures
Before you get started, first ask if the light is necessary. If it is, replace or adjust each outdoor fixture to comply with all five principles.
Select Adequate Shielding
Choose a fully shielded fixture that directs light downward.
Choose the right lumen level
Select an appropriate lumen (brightness) level with the total lumen output below 1000.
Use Timers and Sensors
Place necessary outdoor lighting on a timer or motion sensor to ensure it is only on when needed.
Opting for Warmer CCT's
Select a luminaire or bulb with a warm or amber-toned correlated colour temperature (CCT) - 2700K or lower.
Commercial and industrial outdoor lighting regulations
Our Outdoor Lighting By-law has specific requirements and regulations for large developments, advertising signage, and commercial and industrial properties. These regulations recognize the importance of lighting for security and business visibility, while also balancing the impact on nearby homes and the community.
Outdoor advertising signage regulations
Light fixtures used to illuminate signs or billboards must:
- be mounted on top of the sign facing down
- must utilize full cut-off fixtures
- and be directed at the sign such that 90% of the light is on the sign
Security Lighting Regulations for Commercial and Industrial Properties
Light fixtures used for security purposes as part of commercial operations must be below 2,000 lumens.
Governing Lighting for New Commercial and Industrial Development
Applicants for substantial new development (including commercial, industrial, institutional, etc.), as determined by the Town Planner, must submit plans that demonstrate their outdoor lighting is compliant with the Outdoor Lighting By-law.