Fitchburg vs Madison
How do dark sky rules rules compare between Fitchburg, WI and Madison, WI?
Fitchburg, WI
Dane County
No data available yet for Fitchburg.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison addresses outdoor lighting through its zoning code Chapter 28 and development review standards. New commercial and multi-family developments must use fully shielded light fixtures that direct light downward. While Madison does not have a standalone dark-sky ordinance, the city's Comprehensive Plan promotes energy-efficient lighting and reduction of light pollution. LED street lighting conversions have included warm-color temperature selections to reduce sky glow.
View full Madison rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fitchburg | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | - | Madison Code Ch. 28 — Zoning |
| Shielding | - | Fully shielded fixtures for new development |
| Street Lights | - | LED conversions with warm-color temperatures |
| Policy | - | Comprehensive Plan promotes light pollution reduction |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fitchburg FAQ
No FAQs available.
Madison FAQ
Does Madison have a dark-sky ordinance?
Madison does not have a standalone dark-sky ordinance, but the zoning code requires fully shielded light fixtures for new commercial and multi-family developments. The city's Comprehensive Plan also promotes reducing light pollution.
Are there requirements for residential outdoor lighting?
Residential outdoor lighting is not heavily regulated, but light that trespasses onto neighboring properties can be addressed as a nuisance. New development projects are reviewed for lighting design and must use shielded fixtures.
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