NC-v5 SSc6: Light Pollution Reduction 1 point

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© Copyright U.S. Green Building Council, Inc. All rights reserved.

Intent

To increase night sky access, improve nighttime visibility, and reduce the consequences of development for wildlife and people.

Requirements

Meet the following uplight, light trespass, and internally illuminated exterior signage requirements for exterior luminaires located inside the project boundary.

Uplight
Do not exceed the following uplight ratings, based on the specific light source installed in the luminaire, as defined in Table 1.

Table 1. Maximum Uplight Ratings for Luminaires

AND

Light Trespass
Do not exceed the following luminaire backlight and glare ratings (based on the specific light source installed in the luminaire), as defined in IES TM-15-11, Addendum A, based on the mounting location and distance from the lighting boundary.

Table 2. Maximum Backlight and Glare Ratings 

AND

Internally Illuminated Exterior Signage
Do not exceed the maximum luminance level of internally illuminated signage during nighttime hours according to Table 3.

Table 3. Maximum sign luminance

Exemptions to uplight and light trespass requirements 
The following exterior lighting is exempt from the requirements, provided it is controlled separately from the nonexempt lighting: 

• Specialized signal, directional, and marker lighting for transportation. 
• Lighting used solely for façade and landscape lighting in MLO lighting zones 3 and 4 and that is automatically turned off from midnight until 6 a.m.
• Lighting for theatrical purposes for stage, film, and video performances. 
• Government-mandated roadway lighting. 
• Lighting for hospital emergency departments, including associated helipads.
• Lighting for the national flag in lighting zones 2, 3, or 4.
• Internally illuminated exterior signage.