Parking Lot Lighting Calculator & Parking Lot Light Spacing Plan

We can confirm this amount in our initial on-site survey. Reach out today!

How many lumens do I need for a parking lot?

The amount of lumens needed for your parking lot space will greatly depend on the size and other specifications. Below, we’ll cover some common parking lot types and the range of lumens they require. 

Residential Neighborhoods and Smaller Parking Lots

When designing lighting solutions for residential neighborhoods and smaller parking lots, an output between 12,000 to 18,000 lumens is typically sufficient. 

This range provides adequate illumination for safety and visibility without causing excessive glare or light pollution. It balances functionality with comfort, so that residents and visitors feel secure while maintaining the neighborhood's aesthetic appeal.

Mid-Sized Commercial Parking Areas

For mid-sized commercial parking areas and car showroom lighting, a higher lumen output, ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 lumens, is recommended. These environments often require enhanced lighting to accommodate increased traffic and activity levels. 

Effective lighting in these spaces not only makes it easier to drive, it also enhances pedestrian safety by improving the visibility of pathways and surrounding areas.

Large and Industrial Lots

Expansive or industrial zones demand even more robust lighting solutions, with outputs ranging from 30,000 to 70,000 lumens. These larger areas are often used for complex operations and therefore require high visibility for safety and operational efficiency. 

Adequate lighting in these zones is critical to ensure that employees can safely navigate and perform tasks, while also increasing security by deterring unauthorized access or activities with well-lit surroundings.

Our easy-to-use calculator tool can assist you in determining the best lighting configuration for your space. For more comprehensive designs and solutions, our team specializes in creating tailored lighting plans that prioritize safety, efficiency, and aesthetics for both commercial and residential projects. 

Contact us today to see how we can illuminate your spaces with precision and care.

Follow our expert guidance to create the perfect parking lot lighting solution! Use our calculator and reach out to our lighting experts to ensure optimal efficiency and safety.

Calculating Parking Lot Light Spacing

The distance between parking lot lights significantly impacts the uniformity of the lighting and the elimination of dark spots. Below, we outline the steps for correctly calculating parking lot light spacing.

• Step 1: Determine the coverage area of each light by checking the lumens and beam angle specifications provided by the manufacturer. Lumens measure the total amount of visible light from a lamp or light source, while the beam angle refers to the spread of the light emitted.  Generally, lights with higher lumens and wider beam angles cover more space, allowing for greater distances between them, which can reduce the number of fixtures needed and potentially lower installation costs.
• Step 2: Assess the layout and dimensions of your parking lot. Consider factors such as the lot’s shape, usage patterns, and any existing obstructions that might affect light distribution.  A grid or staggered pattern often works best, depending on these variables. Utilize photometric lighting software, where available, to simulate light coverage and fine-tune the positioning, ensuring optimal distribution of light across the entire area.
• Step 3: Avoid dark spots and promote safety By ensuring that there is an overlap of light beams for consistent illumination. Overlap percentages will be derived from your specific lighting setup and parking lot requirements.
• Step 4: Secure the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities, if required. This process can involve submitting detailed plans and specifications to ensure compliance with local codes and regulations.
• Step 5: Install the lighting fixtures according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure that they are mounted at the correct height and angle for optimal coverage, taking into account potential weather conditions and structural integrity.
• Step 6: Test the lights at night to confirm even illumination and make any necessary adjustments. This might involve tweaking the angles or repositioning certain fixtures to eliminate areas of poor visibility.
• Step 7: Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure the lights remain in good working condition. Maintenance includes cleaning the fixtures, replacing any burnt-out bulbs, and checking electrical connections to ensure the system's reliability and longevity. 

Regular maintenance not only prioritizes safety but also maximizes the lifespan of your lighting investment.

When planning your project's overall lighting strategy, it is essential to consider both outdoor parking areas and indoor configurations, as parking garage lighting requirements may differ significantly from those for open parking lots. Consulting with lighting retrofit companies can help ensure that your design meets the specific needs of each area effectively.

Let's Build Your Parking Lot Lighting Plan

Are you ready to transform your parking lot into a well-lit, secure, and visually appealing space? Our commercial lighting solutions will help you through every step of the process. 

From selecting the right light fixtures to determining the optimal layout, we customize solutions that align with your specific needs. Enhance safety and efficiency while achieving a modern aesthetic with our bespoke lighting plans.

Don't leave your parking lot lighting to chance; contact us today to get started and see the difference that professional planning makes. Visit our website or call us at (954) 714-0300 to schedule a consultation and start illuminating your space with confidence.

Start saving with our expert lighting solutions! Follow our parking lot lighting calculator and spacing plan to design efficient, cost-effective, and safe parking lot lighting.