Title 24 Outdoor Lighting Requirements 2018

Essential Aspects of Title 24 Outdoor Lighting Requirements 2018

Title 24 of the California Energy Code establishes stringent energy efficiency standards for all new construction and building alterations in the state, including outdoor lighting. The 2018 update to Title 24 introduces several significant changes to the outdoor lighting requirements, with the primary goal of reducing energy consumption and light pollution.

Key Requirements

The following are key requirements of Title 24 Outdoor Lighting Requirements 2018:

Shielding: All outdoor lighting fixtures must be fully shielded to prevent light from emitting above the horizontal plane.
Wattage Limits: The maximum wattage allowed for outdoor lighting varies depending on the type of luminaire and its location. Generally, the wattage limits are as follows:

Residential: 150 watts for downlights and 50 watts for other fixtures
Commercial: 1,000 watts for parking lot lights and 400 watts for other fixtures

Curfew Hours: Outdoor lighting in non-residential areas must be turned off between the hours of 11:00 PM and sunrise. Exceptions exist for security, safety, or façade lighting.
Motion Sensors: Motion sensors must be installed on all outdoor lighting fixtures in commercial and multi-family residential buildings. These sensors ensure that lights are only activated when motion is detected.
Energy Efficiency: All outdoor lighting fixtures must meet minimum energy efficiency standards. The specific standards vary depending on the type of luminaire.

Benefits of Compliance

Compliance with Title 24 Outdoor Lighting Requirements 2018 offers several benefits, including:

Reduced Energy Costs: By implementing energy-efficient lighting and reducing unnecessary lighting, businesses and homeowners can significantly reduce their energy bills.
Diminished Light Pollution: Fully shielded lighting fixtures and wattage limits help to reduce light pollution, preserving night skies and improving visibility for drivers and pedestrians.
Environmental Sustainability: Energy-efficient outdoor lighting reduces the demand for electricity, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Compliance with Code: Adhering to Title 24 requirements ensures that buildings are compliant with state and local building codes, avoiding potential penalties or delays in construction.

Exceptions and Exemptions

Certain exceptions and exemptions to the Title 24 Outdoor Lighting Requirements exist, including:

Emergency and security lighting
Façade lighting
Historic or architectural lighting
Lighting for sports fields or other recreational facilities

Conclusion

Title 24 Outdoor Lighting Requirements 2018 play a vital role in promoting energy efficiency and reducing light pollution in California. By adhering to these requirements, businesses, homeowners, and contractors can create sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly outdoor lighting solutions.