You’re likely familiar with DarkSky Approved luminaires for commercial applications. However, DarkSky also approves residential luminaries. In both cases, the program approves outdoor luminaires that minimize light pollution as well as negative impacts on people and wildlife.

DarkSky requirements for residential luminaires include:

• Uplight allowance: Not to exceed 50 lumens from source reflection or support structures. Light source shall not be visible from the horizontal plane, i.e. the luminaire must be fully shielded.
• Luminaires must have Safety Certification by an independent laboratory.
• Approved luminaires must employ warm-toned 3000K CCT and lower light sources. Amber and PC amber light sources are also allowable under this program.
• If other CCTs and mounting options are available for the luminaire, a notation must be made on the web page, spec sheets, and order forms that 3000K CCT (or warmer) and fixed mounting must be ordered to be DarkSky Approved.

A partial list of manufacturers with DarkSky Approved residential luminaires includes:

• Cordelia
• Hammerton
• Hampton Bay
• Hubbardton Forge
• Hudson Valley Lighting Group
• Kalco Lighting
• Kenroy Home
• Kichler
• Minka Group
• Progress Lighting
• Sternberg Lighting
• Troy Lighting