FAQs
- Install outdoor bulbs with a maximum of 3,000 degrees Kelvin, and select outdoor lighting fixtures that are fully shielded and direct light downward. View International Dark-Sky Association examples of fully shielded fixtures here.
- Use dimmers, timers, or motion sensors for outdoor lighting.
- Use outdoor lights only when and where they are needed.
- Why focus on light at night? Learn more here.
- Not “less lighting”—better lighting!
- You may need to replace lightbulbs. Outdoor lightbulbs in Park City should be 3,000 degrees Kelvin or less by the end of 2024.
- Find DarkSky Approved Lighting fixtures, luminates, path lighting, etc. here and visit DesignLights Consortium (DLC) LUNA resources page here. For further info, see “What are some examples of Dark Sky compliant lighting?”
- Be a good neighbor! Use lighting that is fully shielded, down-directed, and only where needed.
- Angle lighting so that it doesn't spill into neighboring yards.
- Set timers for outdoor lights and only use outdoor light when needed.
- For landscape lighting, choose fixtures that are low voltage LED or solar powered, downward directed, and mounted no more than 18 inches above the ground level.
- The below graphic illuminates what "light bulbs that are 3,000 degrees Kelvin or less" means:
- Within Park City Limits (84060 zip code): Seasonal lights that do not cause light to spill out unnecessarily or interfere with the reasonable use and enjoyment of property are permitted from November 1 through March 1. Residential seasonal lights must be turned off by 11:00 p.m. Lights outlining buildings on Main Street and in the General Commercial Zoning District may have seasonal lights outlining buildings year round, but lights must be turned off by 2:30 a.m.
- Feeling festive year round? Consider dark sky compliant string lights.
When your existing lightbulb burns out, purchase energy efficient bulbs not exceeding 3,000 degrees Kelvin and no more than 2,000 lumens of output.
Research dark sky compliant lighting fixtures here.
Feeling crafty? You can modify existing fixtures to be compliant by painting clear glass or attaching a metal shield. Be sure to turn off your power and consult a professional when needed
What can I do to protect the night sky?
How do I comply with the dark sky requirements as a homeowner or business owner?
What are some examples or dark sky compliant lighting fixtures and tactics?
What about seasonal lighting?
What can I do with my non-compliant light fixtures and bulbs?
What about lighting for public safety?
Your safety is important and our goal is to maximize safety for all living things. Streetlights will still meet the illumination requirements set by the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT). Public areas will be lit with lighting that is fully shielded, down-directed, and designed in a way that minimizes glare and spill into neighboring properties. For more info, see “What are some examples of dark sky lighting?”