Grand Rapids, MI Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Fixture type required
- High Intensity Discharge (HID)
- Prohibited fixture
- High-pressure sodium
- Poles
- Fixed height only, no adjustable
- Standard cited
- IESNA cut-off definition
Summary
Grand Rapids' zoning code requires High Intensity Discharge fixtures on reviewed outdoor lighting installations to keep a unified citywide standard and cut sky glow, and it flatly prohibits high-pressure sodium fixtures.
High Intensity Discharge (HID) fixtures shall be used in an effort to maintain a unified lighting standard throughout the city and prevent "sky glow." High pressure sodium fixtures shall be prohibited.d.The Director may approve decorative light fixtures as an alternative to shielded fixtures when it can be demonstrated that there shall be no off-site glare or illumination and the proposed fixtures will improve the appearance of the site.7.Light Poles. The base of light poles in parking areas shall be either flush with grade or mounted on a concrete foundation projecting no more than thirty-six (36) inches above grade. The base of light poles in non-parking areas shall be either flush with grade or mounted on a concrete foundation projecting no more than six (6) inches above grade.
5.2.19.C Outdoor Lighting. 5.2.19.C Outdoor Lighting.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 70).
Full Breakdown
Section 5.2.19.C.6 sets the fixture standard for outdoor lighting that goes through Director Review or Site Plan Review. Fixtures must be full cut-off and shielded as defined by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, poles must be a fixed height with adjustable poles prohibited, and High Intensity Discharge lamps are required specifically to hold a unified lighting standard citywide and prevent sky glow. High-pressure sodium fixtures, the amber lights common on older commercial sites, are prohibited outright. The Director can approve decorative alternatives only after the applicant proves there will be no off-site glare or illumination.
Violations & Fines
Enforced by the Planning Department at the Director Review or Site Plan Review stage; noncompliant fixtures must be swapped before approval, and installed violations can be cited as a municipal civil infraction under Chapter 170.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install high-pressure sodium lights on a new project in Grand Rapids?
Does this apply to my house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Grand Rapids
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