Chicago Energy Code and zoning rules require exterior security and parking-lot lights to use full-cutoff fixtures aimed downward. Light cannot trespass past the property line or shine into neighbors' windows, and Lakefront and bird-collision rules add further controls.
MCC 18-13, the Chicago Energy Conservation Code, sets exterior lighting power and zone limits aligned with IECC. MCC 17-11-0700 zoning standards require parking-lot and security lights to use shielded full-cutoff fixtures, height limits typically 20 feet, and zero foot-candle measurement at residential property lines. The Chicago Lights Out ordinance and Bird-Friendly Building requirement MCC 17-4-1614 push extinguishing of decorative lighting during spring and fall migration. Lakefront Protection Ordinance MCC 16-4 layers stricter glare rules near the lake. Buildings inspectors check during installation and on complaint. Adjacent residents may file 311 light-trespass complaints to trigger investigation and abatement.
Unshielded floods, lighting that exceeds zero foot-candles at residential lines, or non-cutoff parking lot poles trigger MCC 17-11 zoning violations of $200-$1,500 plus mandatory retrofits.
Chicago, IL
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See how Chicago's security light shielding rules stack up against other locations.
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