Dark sky lighting reminder for summer

Big Sky’s night skies are part of what makes this place extraordinary. As summer projects get underway, here is a refresher on BSOA’s exterior lighting standards.

The standard

• All exterior fixtures must be full cut-off: no upward glare and no visible bulb

• Lighting should operate only when the home is occupied, and only between dusk and midnight

• The standard applies to new construction and to replacement fixtures alike

How to check your fixtures

Stand at the edge of your property after dark. If you can see the bulb itself, or light is shining upward or sideways, the fixture likely does not meet the standard. When shopping for replacements, look for fixtures the manufacturer tags as “dark sky rated.”

Planning new lighting?

Exterior changes require approval from the Architectural Review Committee before work begins. Your subdivision’s covenants may also have additional requirements, so check both.

Questions?

Contact the BSOA office at (406) 995-4166 and we’ll help you find the right answer.