Hartford, CT Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)

Intent. To provide adequate light for safety and security; promote efficient lighting that conserves energy; reduce light pollution, light trespass, glare and offensive light sources; and provide an environmentally sensitive nighttime environment that includes the ability to view the stars against a dark sky so that people can see the Milky Way Galaxy.B.Applicability. These regulations apply to the installation of new outdoor lighting fixtures or the replacement of existing outdoor fixtures other than outdoor fixtures erected and maintained by the city. Replacement of a fixture shall mean a change of fixture type or change to the mounting height or location of the fixture, including fixtures mounted on the exterior of buildings or structures, freestanding lights, and ground lights. Routine lighting maintenance, such as changing lamps or light bulbs, ballast, starter, photo control, housing, lenses, and other similar components, does not constitute replacement and is permitted, provided such changes do not result in a higher lumen output.