DarkSky Approved Luminaires
The DarkSky Approved Luminaires program provides objective, third-party approval for manufactured luminaires (light fixtures) that meet our strict guidelines for responsible outdoor lighting.
Developed by industry professionals—including lighting engineers and designers—in collaboration with experts in the fields of wildlife biology, ecology, and human health, these guidelines ensure outdoor lighting minimizes light pollution while maintaining and improving functionality and safety.
Luminaires that meet our rigorous criteria, based on the Five Principles of Responsible Outdoor Lighting, earn the DarkSky Approved seal—a trusted mark among the lighting community and consumers as the industry standard for dark sky-friendly lighting.
The need for quality lighting
While light at night is essential in today’s world, when we over-light, direct light upwards, neglect to install timers and sensors, or use the wrong color of light we negatively affect the nighttime environment. Bad lighting at night disrupts wildlife, impacts human health, wastes money and energy, and blocks our view of the universe.
Quality lighting that follows the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting protects the night by eliminating uplight and reducing glare and light trespass. The result—beautiful lighting that improves safety while significantly reducing light pollution.
Program categories
Outdoor lighting needs vary by location and purpose, which is why our enhanced program offers four categories of DarkSky Approved Luminaires—providing tailored solutions for every application.
Residential Luminaires are outdoor luminaires that are primarily used on properties of single-family dwellings or residences with up to four connected units (four-plex) or town homes.
Commercial Luminaires are outdoor luminaires that are used on properties of commercial or industrial businesses and places with high traffic, such as schools, hotels, and government buildings, as well as public spaces or rights-of-way, including streets and roadways.
Pedestrian Comfort Luminaires are commercial luminaires with reduced lumen output and more stringent high-angle light restrictions that create a more comfortable experience for pedestrians.
Sea Turtle Sensitive Luminaires include shielding and color spectra tuned to protect specific species habitats (e.g., Sea Turtle Sensitive Luminaires).
Approval process
Submission Deposit
A non-refundable $200 USD deposit is required at submission and will be applied toward the total application fee.
Application
Submit the online form with company and product details, ensuring all specifications meet our listed criteria. Review program guidelines carefully before applying.
Review
Our team of DarkSky lighting professionals will evaluate submissions within five to ten business days. The total application fee will be determined after review. If a luminaire does not meet program criteria, manufacturers will be notified and given a chance to correct issues within the same application round.
Getting Approved
Luminaires that meet all criteria and pay the required fee will receive DarkSky Approval. Companies that do not maintain the annual renewal fee must pay the registration fee again to regain an active status. Approved products receive official certificate, logos, and promotional materials.
Maintaining Certification
An annual renewal fee is due July 1st to maintain certification and ensure compliance with v3.0 guidelines. Invoices are issued June 1st, and unpaid accounts are removed from the registry after September 1st.
Apply
If you’re ready to apply, ensure you’ve reviewed the guidelines, then fill out the form. A non-refundable review deposit is due upon form submission.
Download: DarkSky Approved Luminaires program packet
PDF: DarkSky Approved Luminaires program packet (v1 2025)
Contact
To learn more, contact the DarkSky Lighting Program Manager.
