Springfield, MA Outdoor Lighting: Dark Sky Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Fixtures
- Fully shielded required
- Direction
- Downward only
- Topic
- Dark Sky Rules
Summary
Springfield regulates outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution and glare. Fully shielded fixtures required for new installations. Lighting must be directed downward and not trespass onto neighboring properties.
Section 21. Towns may, for the purposes hereinafter named, make such ordinances and by-laws, not repugnant to law, as they may judge most conducive to their welfare, which shall be binding upon all inhabitants thereof and all persons within their limits. They may, except as herein provided, affix penalties for breaches thereof not exceeding three hundred dollars for each offense, which shall enure to the town or to such uses as it may direct. Notwithstanding the provisions of any special law to the contrary, fines shall be recovered by indictment or on complaint before a district court, or by noncriminal disposition in accordance with section twenty-one D.
Full Breakdown
Springfield enforces outdoor lighting standards through building codes and zoning regulations. New exterior lighting must use fully shielded (full-cutoff) fixtures that direct light downward. Maximum wattage and lumen limits may apply in residential zones. Motion-sensor lighting encouraged for security. Commercial lighting must not spill onto adjacent residential properties. Parking lot lighting has specific pole height and coverage requirements.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Springfield
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