Dark Sky Rules: Duluth vs Suwanee
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Duluth, GA and Suwanee, GA?
Duluth and Suwanee have similar restriction levels.
Duluth, GA
Gwinnett County
Duluth is not a designated IDA Dark-Sky community but the UDC requires exterior lighting to be shielded/downcast and not create glare or light trespass. Commercial lighting must meet cutoff fixture standards. No specific lumen or Kelvin limits in residential zones.
View full Duluth rules →Suwanee, GA
Gwinnett County
Suwanee UDC includes outdoor lighting standards requiring full-cutoff fixtures for commercial and multi-family developments. Residential exempt from shielding but subject to light trespass rules. No formal Dark-Sky designation.
View full Suwanee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Duluth | Suwanee |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture Type | Full-cutoff required | - |
| Commercial Spillover | 0.5 fc at line | - |
| IDA Status | Not designated | - |
| Residential Limit | Nuisance standard | - |
| Commercial | - | Full-cutoff required |
| Residential | - | No shielding rule |
| Code | - | UDC Article 8 |
| Dark Sky | - | Not designated |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Duluth FAQ
Can I install a bright security floodlight in Duluth?
Yes, as long as it is shielded/downcast and doesn't spill light onto neighboring properties. Unshielded fixtures that cause glare are code violations.
Is Duluth a dark-sky community?
No. Duluth is not IDA-designated, but the UDC still requires full-cutoff fixtures and prohibits light trespass onto adjacent properties.
What are commercial lighting spillover limits in Duluth?
Commercial parking lot lighting is typically capped at 0.5 footcandles measured at the property line.
Suwanee FAQ
Can I install a bright security light?
Yes, but it must not cause light trespass onto neighboring properties. Full-cutoff fixtures recommended.
Are Suwanee commercial parking lot lights required to be shielded?
Yes. UDC Article 8 requires full-cutoff IESNA fixtures on commercial and multi-family sites, with poles generally capped at 20-25 ft.
Is Suwanee a designated Dark-Sky community?
No. Suwanee has lighting standards for commercial sites but has not adopted formal Dark-Sky designation.
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