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What Is a Foot Candle and a Practical Guide to Lighting Levels by Application

Written by: Cory Peterson

Last Updated: June 16, 2026

Published on: November 23, 2020

What is a Foot Candle?

A foot-candle measures light intensity, equivalent to one lumen of light per square foot. It measures the light that reaches a surface, while lumens measure the quantity of light produced by a fixture.

Footcandles, equivalent to approximately 10.764 lux, are vital for measuring light intensity in commercial, industrial, and sports lighting. They define the required lighting levels for various environments, ensuring safety and functionality.

Compliance note: OSHA regulations focus on workplace safety requirements and may reference minimum lighting needs in certain contexts, but most recommended foot-candle targets used for design work come from lighting engineering guidance (such as IES recommended practices) and project-specific risk and task requirements. Always confirm requirements with your facility safety team, the project engineer, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) defines illuminance standards that help establish appropriate foot-candle levels for different applications. These standards work in conjunction with OSHA’s workplace lighting requirements to ensure both safety and productivity in various environments.

On this page:

How to Use Foot-Candle Recommendations (So You Don’t Over or Underlight)

  • Foot-candles measure illuminance on a surface (light reaching the work plane), not total light produced by the fixture.
  • Most targets are specified as average maintained foot-candles, meaning the design accounts for normal light loss over time (dirt, aging, temperature, etc.).
  • Uniformity matters: two spaces can have the same average fc but feel very different if one has dark spots. Many projects target an Avg/Min ratio of ≤ 4:1 (and tighter where tasks are critical).
  • Where you measure matters: offices and many task areas use a work plane around 30 inches above the floor. Aisles, corridors, and outdoor areas may use ground plane or task-specific measurement locations.
  • Glare control matters: higher fc isn’t always “better” if it creates discomfort or reduces visibility. Optics, mounting height, and shielding are often as important as lumen output.

Best practice: Use these tables to set a starting target range, then validate with a photometric lighting plan based on your layout, mounting heights, reflectances, and fixture distribution.

Where These Foot-Candle Ranges Come From

The values below are commonly referenced target ranges used in lighting design and are intended for general planning. Final targets should be confirmed using IES recommended practices (when applicable), facility safety requirements, and project-specific conditions (inspection tasks, camera coverage, hazards, reflectances, glare limits, and operating hours).

Important Notice

This guide is for general educational use only. Recommended foot-candle targets vary by task, facility policies, reflectance, mounting height, glare limits, and maintenance factors. Do not treat these tables as a substitute for a site-specific lighting design, safety review, or code compliance evaluation.

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Select a lighting category, application, and area to see general planning guidance, typical mounting height, fixture recommendations, and project considerations.

Application Area Foot-Candle Span Details
Auditorium Lighting

Auditorium lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for audience seating, stage and presentation areas, aisles, lobbies, backstage spaces, control booths, and multipurpose event areas.

 Varies by area (5-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Audience Seating Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Stage and Presentation Areas (30-100 fc)
  • Lectern, Podium, and Speaker Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Aisles, Steps, and Circulation Areas (5-15 fc)
  • Lobby and Foyer Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Backstage and Preparation Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Control Booth and AV Areas (10-30 fc)
Billboard and Sign Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for billboard and sign lighting applications.

 Varies by area (5-125 fc)
View area guidance
  • Small Static Billboards (10-30 fc)
  • Standard Static Billboards (20-50 fc)
  • Large Highway Billboards (30-75 fc)
  • Wall-Mounted Signs and Building Signs (10-30 fc)
  • Pylon and Monument Signs (10-30 fc)
  • Urban or High-Ambient Signage (30-75 fc)
  • Rural or Low-Ambient Signage (5-20 fc)
  • Double-Sided Billboards (20-50 fc)
  • Level 1 Billboard Lighting (10-30 fc)
  • Level 2 Billboard Lighting (50-60 fc)
  • Level 3 Billboard Lighting (75-125 fc)
Bridges

Planning foot-candle ranges for bridge roadways, pedestrian walkways, under-deck areas, approaches, structural accent lighting, and maintenance areas.

 Varies by area (0.6-20 fc)
View area guidance
  • Bridge Roadway Decks (0.6-2 fc)
  • Bridge Approaches and Ramps (1-2.5 fc)
  • Pedestrian Bridge Walkways (1-5 fc)
  • Under-Bridge Decks and Utility Areas (1-3 fc)
  • Structural and Accent Lighting (1-10 fc)
  • Bridge Maintenance and Service Areas (5-20 fc)
Bus Garage Lighting

Bus garage lighting supports storage, maintenance, inspection, washing, fueling or charging, vehicle circulation, and exterior operations at transit and fleet facilities.

 Varies by area (2-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Bus Storage Bays (20-30 fc)
  • Bus Maintenance and Repair Bays (50-100 fc)
  • Bus Inspection and Diagnostic Lanes (75-100 fc)
  • Bus Service and Inspection Pits (50-100 fc)
  • Bus Wash Bays (30-50 fc)
  • Fueling, Charging, and Fluid Service Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Parts, Tool, and Storage Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor Drive Lanes and Vehicle Circulation (10-20 fc)
  • Garage Entrances, Exits, and Canopies (10-20 fc)
  • Exterior Bus Parking and Storage Yards (5-20 fc)
  • Employee Parking and Pedestrian Routes (2-5 fc)
Canopy Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for canopy lighting applications.

 Varies by area (2-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Gas Station Canopies (20-50 fc)
  • Parking Garages (5-20 fc)
  • Covered Parking Areas (5-15 fc)
  • Drive-Thrus (10-30 fc)
  • Covered Walkways (2-10 fc)
  • Loading Dock Canopies (10-30 fc)
  • Workshop and Shop Garages (30-75 fc)
  • Automotive Service Bays (50-100 fc)
  • Self-Storage Facilities (2-10 fc)
  • Car Wash Bays (20-50 fc)
  • Low-Ceiling Commercial Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Covered Outdoor Work Areas (10-50 fc)
Car Dealership Lighting

Car dealership lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for showrooms, sales areas, service bays, detail bays, parts areas, exterior vehicle display lots, customer parking, entrances, facades, and perimeter security.

 Varies by area (5-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Vehicle Showrooms (50-100 fc)
  • Sales Offices, Waiting Areas, and Customer Lounges (30-50 fc)
  • Service Bays and Repair Areas (75-150 fc)
  • Detail, Wash, and Inspection Bays (100-200 fc)
  • Parts Counters and Parts Storage (30-75 fc)
  • Exterior Vehicle Display Lots (30-50 fc)
  • Customer Parking and Drive Aisles (10-20 fc)
  • Building Facade, Entrances, and Brand Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Perimeter Security and Back Lot Areas (5-20 fc)
Car Wash Lighting

Car wash lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for self-service bays, tunnel washes, vacuum and drying areas, detail bays, paint correction areas, equipment rooms, customer areas, and exterior entrances.

 Varies by area (5-300 fc)
View area guidance
  • Self-Service Car Wash Bays (25-50 fc)
  • Automatic and Tunnel Car Wash Areas (60-100 fc)
  • Vacuuming and Drying Areas (35-60 fc)
  • Car Detailing Bays (125-200 fc)
  • Paint Correction and Polishing Areas (175-300 fc)
  • Equipment and Mechanical Rooms (30-75 fc)
  • Office, Pay Station, and Customer Waiting Areas (25-50 fc)
  • Exterior Entrances, Parking, and Perimeter Areas (5-20 fc)
Cobra Head Street Lighting

Cobra head street lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by roadway, intersection, parking drive aisle, site road, and perimeter application, with photometric verification for pole height, pole spacing, arm length, Type III or Type V distribution, roadway width, glare control, spill light, voltage, surge protection, mounting compatibility, and local requirements.

 Varies by area (0.5-10 fc)
View area guidance
  • Local and Residential Streets (0.5-2 fc)
  • Collector Roads and Municipal Streets (1-4 fc)
  • Arterial Roadways and Higher-Volume Streets (2-6 fc)
  • Intersections and Crosswalk Areas (3-10 fc)
  • Parking Lot Drive Aisles and Perimeter Roads (1-5 fc)
  • Commercial and Industrial Site Roads (1-5 fc)
  • Security Perimeter and Fence Line Roads (1-5 fc)
  • Sidewalks, Pedestrian Routes, and Support Areas (0.5-5 fc)
Commercial Kitchen Lighting

Commercial kitchen lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for food preparation, cooking lines, dishwashing, serving and pass areas, storage, coolers and freezers, and handwashing or sanitation areas.

 Varies by area (20-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Food Preparation Areas (50-70 fc)
  • Cooking and Equipment Lines (50-75 fc)
  • Dishwashing and Cleaning Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Serving, Plating, and Pass Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Handwashing and Safety Stations (30-50 fc)
  • Dry Storage and Pantry Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Walk-In Coolers and Freezers (20-50 fc)
  • Specialized Workstations (50-150 fc)
  • Cooking Stations and Grills (100-200 fc)
Construction Site Lighting

Construction site lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for general jobsite areas, active work zones, detailed tasks, crane or tower-mounted lighting, material staging, access routes, and perimeter security.

 Varies by area (2-50 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Jobsite Areas (5-10 fc)
  • Active Work Zones (10-20 fc)
  • Detailed Task and Inspection Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Crane and Tower-Mounted Lighting (10-30 fc)
  • Material Staging and Loading Areas (10-20 fc)
  • Walkways, Access Routes, and Egress Paths (5-10 fc)
  • Perimeter and Security Lighting (2-10 fc)
Convention Center Lighting

Convention center lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for exhibit halls, meeting rooms, ballrooms, pre-function spaces, corridors, loading areas, and support rooms.

 Varies by area (5-90 fc)
View area guidance
  • Ballrooms and Event Spaces (30-50 fc)
  • Pre-Function Areas, Lobbies, and Registration (20-30 fc)
  • Corridors, Hallways, and Egress Routes (10-20 fc)
  • Back-of-House, Loading, and Service Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Storage, Mechanical, and Support Rooms (10-30 fc)
  • Exhibit Halls and Main Convention Areas (30-90 fc)
  • Smaller Meeting Rooms and Breakout Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Stairways, Restrooms, and Low-Level Support Areas (5-10 fc)
Data Center Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for data center lighting applications.

 20-75 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • Server Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Repair / Diagnostic Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Storage Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Hallways and Corridors (20-30 fc)
  • Network Closets / IT Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Electrical / Mechanical Support Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Equipment Staging Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Security / Monitoring Work Areas (30-50 fc)
Fleet Maintenance Facility Lighting

Lighting guidance for municipal, utility, delivery, rental, service, and mixed-fleet maintenance facilities.

 Varies by area (2-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Vehicle Storage and Dispatch Bays (20-30 fc)
  • Fleet Maintenance and Repair Bays (50-100 fc)
  • Vehicle Inspection and Diagnostic Lanes (75-100 fc)
  • Vehicle Lift and Alignment Bays (50-100 fc)
  • Service and Inspection Pits (50-100 fc)
  • Fleet Wash and Detailing Bays (30-50 fc)
  • Fueling, Charging, and Fluid Service Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Parts, Tool, and Tire Storage Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor Drive Lanes and Vehicle Circulation (10-20 fc)
  • Garage Entrances, Service Aprons, and Canopies (10-20 fc)
  • Exterior Fleet Parking and Staging Yards (5-20 fc)
  • Employee Parking and Pedestrian Routes (2-5 fc)
Flood Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for flood lighting applications.

 Varies by area (1-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Security and Perimeter Lighting (2-10 fc)
  • Building Exterior and Facade Lighting (5-20 fc)
  • Sign and Billboard Lighting (10-30 fc)
  • Small Parking Area and Driveway Lighting (1-5 fc)
  • Loading Dock and Apron Lighting (10-30 fc)
  • Truck Yard and Trailer Parking (2-10 fc)
  • Outdoor Storage Yard Lighting (2-20 fc)
  • Construction Site Lighting (5-20 fc)
  • Tennis and Pickleball Court Lighting (30-75 fc)
  • Outdoor Basketball Court Lighting (20-50 fc)
  • Small Recreational Field Lighting (20-50 fc)
  • Horse Arena and Rodeo Lighting (20-50 fc)
  • Port, Rail Yard, and Container Yard Lighting (5-30 fc)
  • Marine, Dock, and Marina Lighting (2-20 fc)
  • Flagpole and Monument Lighting (10-50 fc)
Gas Stations

Foot-candle ranges for gas station site areas, including canopy, parking, walkways, store interiors, car wash areas, and perimeter lighting.

 Varies by area (1-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Fuel Pump Canopy Area (30-50 fc)
  • Parking Areas (5-10 fc)
  • Walkways and Entrances (10-20 fc)
  • Convenience Store Interior (30-50 fc)
  • Retail Display Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Car Wash Interior (20-30 fc)
  • Car Wash Exterior or Approach (10-20 fc)
  • Outdoor Perimeter Areas (1-5 fc)
Gyms and Fitness Centers

Foot-candle ranges for school gyms, public gymnasiums, competitive events, fitness centers, group exercise rooms, locker rooms, lobbies, training areas, and pool areas.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Assemblies and Multi-Purpose Events (10-20 fc)
  • General Exercise and Recreation (20-50 fc)
  • Locker Rooms (10-30 fc)
  • Exhibitions and Competitive Events (40-60 fc)
  • School Gymnasiums (30-70 fc)
  • Public Gymnasiums (40-70 fc)
  • General Workout Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Group Exercise Rooms (20-40 fc)
  • Reception and Lobby Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Specialized Training Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Pool Areas (50-100 fc)
Healthcare Facilities

Planning foot-candle ranges for hospital lobbies, waiting areas, patient rooms, corridors, labs, exam rooms, kitchens, and operating rooms.

 Varies by area (10-1000 fc)
View area guidance
  • Lobby and Reception Areas (15-30 fc)
  • Waiting Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Patient Rooms - Ambient and Observation (10-30 fc)
  • Patient Rooms - Exam and Task Lighting (30-50 fc)
  • Healthcare Corridors (10-30 fc)
  • Exam Rooms (50-100 fc)
  • Medical Laboratories (50-100 fc)
  • Critical Care and Treatment Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Operating Rooms - General Room Lighting (100-300 fc)
  • Operating Rooms - Surgical Task Lighting (300-1000 fc)
  • Healthcare Kitchens and Food Service Areas (30-100 fc)
  • Restrooms, Utility, and Support Spaces (10-30 fc)
High Bay Lighting

High bay fixtures are commonly used in large indoor spaces with ceilings typically 20 feet or higher, including warehouses, manufacturing facilities, gyms, aircraft hangars, food processing areas, and heavy industrial spaces.

 Varies by area (5-600 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Fulfillment Floor Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Picking Aisles and Pick Modules (30-50 fc)
  • Packing Stations and Work Tables (50-75 fc)
  • Sorting Areas and Conveyor Zones (30-50 fc)
  • Barcode, Label, and Order Verification Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Returns Processing and Inspection Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Mezzanines and Elevated Work Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Shipping and Dispatch Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Small Parts and Shelving Storage (30-60 fc)
  • Receiving Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Shipping Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Staging Lanes and Pallet Queues (20-50 fc)
  • Cross-Dock and Transfer Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Rack Aisles and Storage Rows (10-30 fc)
  • Forklift Routes and Traffic Intersections (20-40 fc)
  • Dock Doors and Interior Loading Bays (10-30 fc)
  • Label Check and Verification Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Inactive Warehouse Areas (5-10 fc)
  • Open Warehouse Storage (10-30 fc)
  • Warehouse Aisles (10-30 fc)
  • Active Warehouse - Large Items (10-20 fc)
  • Active Warehouse - Small Items (15-60 fc)
  • Active Warehouse - Fine Items (20-50 fc)
  • Shipping and Receiving Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Receiving and Shipping Docks (5-20 fc)
  • Receiving and Staging Areas (15-60 fc)
  • Cold Storage (10-30 fc)
  • Coarse Material Processing (10-20 fc)
  • Medium Material Processing (20-40 fc)
  • Fine Material Processing (40-75 fc)
  • Extra Fine Material Processing (50-100 fc)
  • Wrapping, Packaging, and Labeling (30-50 fc)
  • Picking Stock (30-50 fc)
  • Simple Assembly (15-60 fc)
  • Medium Assembly (25-100 fc)
  • Difficult Assembly (50-200 fc)
  • Exacting Assembly and Inspection (150-600 fc)
  • General Food Processing (50-100 fc)
  • General Work / Storage (30-50 fc)
  • Aircraft Maintenance - Some Detailed Tasks (30-50 fc)
  • Aircraft Maintenance - Fine Detailed Tasks (70-100 fc)
  • Aircraft Inspection (50-200 fc)
  • Gym Assemblies (10-20 fc)
  • General Exercise and Recreation (20-50 fc)
  • Smaller School Gymnasiums (30-50 fc)
  • Larger School Gymnasiums (50-100 fc)
  • Public Gyms (40-70 fc)
  • Fitness Center - Pool Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Main Convention Area (30-90 fc)
  • Water Treatment - General Work Areas (20-30 fc)
Highways and Roadways

Planning foot-candle ranges for highways, ramps, interchanges, underpasses, tunnels, and work zones.

 Varies by area (0.6-5 fc)
View area guidance
  • Highways and Freeways (0.6-2 fc)
  • Interchanges and Ramps (1-2.5 fc)
  • Underpasses (1.5-3 fc)
  • Tunnels (2-5 fc)
  • Highway Construction and Work Zones (1-5 fc)
  • Pedestrian Crossings and Walkways (1-3 fc)
Horse Stables and Barns

Planning foot-candle ranges for horse stalls, barn aisles, grooming areas, wash bays, tack rooms, feed rooms, and veterinary or farrier work areas.

 Varies by area (5-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Horse Stalls (10-20 fc)
  • Barn Aisles and Walkways (10-30 fc)
  • Grooming and Tacking Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Wash Bays (20-50 fc)
  • Tack Rooms, Feed Rooms, and Storage Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Veterinary and Farrier Work Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Exterior Barn Entrances and Service Areas (5-20 fc)
LED Panel Lighting

LED panel lights are slim commercial ceiling fixtures used in drop ceilings and other indoor commercial layouts, including offices, schools, healthcare spaces, retail stores, corridors, conference rooms, reception areas, and support spaces.

 Varies by area (5-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Open Offices and Workstations (30-50 fc)
  • Private Offices (30-50 fc)
  • Conference and Meeting Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Video Conference Rooms (40-75 fc)
  • Classrooms and Training Rooms (30-70 fc)
  • Healthcare Offices and Exam Rooms (50-100 fc)
  • Retail Sales Floors (30-80 fc)
  • Reception and Lobby Areas (20-40 fc)
  • Corridors and Hallways (5-10 fc)
  • Break Rooms and Office Kitchens (15-40 fc)
  • Copy, Print, and Mail Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Storage and File Rooms (10-30 fc)
LED Street Lighting

LED street lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by residential street, collector road, major roadway, intersection, sidewalk, parking drive aisle, site road, and perimeter route, with photometric verification for pole height, pole spacing, arm length, roadway width, Type III or Type V distribution, glare control, spill light, voltage, surge protection, mounting compatibility, color temperature, and local requirements.

 Varies by area (0.5-10 fc)
View area guidance
  • Residential and Local Streets (0.5-2 fc)
  • Collector Roads and Municipal Streets (1-4 fc)
  • Major Roads and Arterial Streets (2-6 fc)
  • Intersections, Crosswalks, and Conflict Zones (3-10 fc)
  • Sidewalks and Pedestrian Routes (0.5-5 fc)
  • Parking Lot Drive Aisles and Private Site Roads (1-5 fc)
  • Commercial and Industrial Site Roads (1-5 fc)
  • Perimeter Roads and Security Routes (1-5 fc)
Logistics Yard Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for logistics yards, trailer staging, truck courts, circulation lanes, dock approaches, inspection areas, gates, fence lines, camera zones, parking, and pedestrian routes.

 Varies by area (2-30 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Trailer Parking and Staging (3-10 fc)
  • Low-Activity and Overnight Trailer Storage (2-5 fc)
  • Truck Circulation and Turning Lanes (5-10 fc)
  • Dock Approaches and Loading Aprons (10-20 fc)
  • Trailer Identification and Inspection Areas (15-30 fc)
  • Gates, Checkpoints, and Access-Control Areas (10-20 fc)
  • Perimeter Fence Lines and Patrol Routes (2-10 fc)
  • Camera Surveillance and Security-Critical Zones (5-15 fc)
  • Building Edges, Service Doors, and Utility Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Employee Parking and Pedestrian Routes (2-5 fc)
  • Large Open Logistics Yards with High Mast Lighting (5-10 fc)
Low Bay Lighting

Low bay fixtures are commonly used in commercial and industrial spaces with lower or mid-height ceilings, typically 8 to 20 feet, including workshops, small warehouses, retail stores, schools, offices, service areas, and pole barns.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Hobby Work (30-50 fc)
  • Work with Limited Detailed Tasks (30-50 fc)
  • Work with Fine-Detailed Tasks (50-100 fc)
  • Small Warehouse Open Storage (10-30 fc)
  • Small Warehouse Aisles (10-30 fc)
  • Small Warehouse Active Picking (15-60 fc)
  • Circulation Area / Stockroom (10-30 fc)
  • Department Store (20-80 fc)
  • Discount, Drug, or Convenience Store (25-100 fc)
  • Merchandising / Self-Service Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Shopping Mall (20-40 fc)
  • Classrooms (30-50 fc)
  • College Lecture Halls (50-100 fc)
  • School Hallways (10 fc)
  • Multipurpose Rooms (30-70 fc)
  • Open Cubicle Space (30-50 fc)
  • Private Offices (30-50 fc)
  • Reception Areas (10 fc)
  • Conference Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Video Conference Rooms (40-75 fc)
  • Server Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Repair Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Storage Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Hallways and Corridors (20-30 fc)
  • Storage or Light-Duty Occasional Work (20-30 fc)
  • Pole Barn Workshop / Mechanical Area (30-50 fc)
  • Pole Barn Fine Detail Work (50-75 fc)
Office Lighting

Office lighting supports visual comfort, task visibility, productivity, screen use, collaboration, and safe circulation in open offices, private offices, conference rooms, reception areas, corridors, break rooms, and support spaces.

 Varies by area (5-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Open Offices and Workstations (30-50 fc)
  • Private Offices (30-50 fc)
  • Conference and Meeting Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Video Conference Rooms (40-75 fc)
  • Reception and Lobby Areas (20-40 fc)
  • Corridors and Hallways (5-10 fc)
  • Break Rooms and Office Kitchens (15-40 fc)
  • Copy, Print, and Mail Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Office Storage and File Rooms (10-30 fc)
  • Training Rooms and Office Classrooms (30-70 fc)
  • Office Restrooms and Washrooms (10-30 fc)
  • Detailed Office Task Areas (50-100 fc)
Outdoor Lighting

Broad planning foot-candle ranges for exterior building areas, parking, walkways, security perimeters, loading areas, signage, drives, entrances, and general outdoor commercial spaces.

 Varies by area (0.6-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Parking Lots - General (1-5 fc)
  • Building Entrances and Exits (5-20 fc)
  • Walkways and Sidewalks (1-5 fc)
  • Security Perimeters (2-10 fc)
  • Loading Docks and Receiving (20-50 fc)
  • Drive Lanes and Private Roads (0.6-3 fc)
  • Building Facades and Architectural Accent (1-10 fc)
  • Signs and Monument Lighting (5-30 fc)
  • Parks, Plazas, and Public Outdoor Spaces (1-10 fc)
  • Outdoor Sports and Recreation - General (30-100 fc)
Parking Garages

Planning foot-candle ranges for parking stalls, drive lanes, ramps, entrances, exits, stairwells, elevator lobbies, payment areas, security zones, rooftop decks, and loading/receiving areas.

 Varies by area (2-50 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Parking Stalls (5-10 fc)
  • Drive Lanes (5-10 fc)
  • Ramps (5-15 fc)
  • Entrances and Exits - Daytime Adaptation (30-50 fc)
  • Entrances and Exits - Nighttime (10-20 fc)
  • Stairwells and Elevator Lobbies (10-20 fc)
  • Payment and Ticketing Areas (20-50 fc)
  • High-Security Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Rooftop and Open Parking Decks (2-10 fc)
  • Loading and Receiving Areas (20-50 fc)
Parking Lots and Parking Garages

Foot-candle ranges for parking lots, parking garages, entrances, ramps, and vehicle storage areas.

 1-5 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • Parking Garage Basic Areas (1 fc)
  • Parking Garage Ramps (1-2 fc)
  • Parking Lots (2-5 fc)
  • Parking Entrances (5 fc)
  • Vehicle Storage Areas (2-5 fc)
Parking Lots and Site Lighting

Parking lot, site, entrance, vehicle-storage, and parking garage lighting use lower foot-candle targets than many indoor task areas but require careful attention to uniformity, glare, security, light trespass, pole spacing, fixture optics, mounting height, and local requirements.

 Varies by area (1-10 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Parking Lots (2-5 fc)
  • Parking Lot Entrances and Exits (5-10 fc)
  • Drive Lanes and Circulation Areas (2-5 fc)
  • Pedestrian Walkways and Crossings (3-5 fc)
  • Retail and High-Activity Parking Lots (3-6 fc)
  • Truck Courts and Loading Areas (5-10 fc)
  • Vehicle Storage Lots (2-5 fc)
  • Security-Sensitive Parking Areas (5-10 fc)
  • Parking Garage - Basic (1 fc)
  • Parking Garage - Ramps (1-2 fc)
Perimeter Security Lighting

Perimeter security lighting supports visibility, deterrence, camera performance, access control, and safer movement around building perimeters, fence lines, gates, yards, loading areas, and other exterior security zones.

 Varies by area (1-20 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Building Perimeters (2-5 fc)
  • Fence Lines and Property Lines (1-5 fc)
  • Security-Sensitive Perimeters (5-10 fc)
  • Gates, Entrances, and Checkpoints (5-20 fc)
  • Loading Docks and Service Doors (5-20 fc)
  • Industrial Yards and Laydown Areas (2-10 fc)
  • Truck Courts and Logistics Yards (5-10 fc)
  • Camera Surveillance Zones (5-15 fc)
  • Remote or Solar Perimeter Zones (1-5 fc)
  • High-Security Facilities (10-20 fc)
Pole Barns

Planning foot-candle ranges for commercial pole barns, machine storage, workshop areas, livestock areas, tack and utility rooms, loading doors, exterior approaches, and general barn use.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Pole Barn Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Equipment and Machine Storage (10-30 fc)
  • Workshop and Shop Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Livestock and Animal Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Tack, Feed, and Utility Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Wash Bays and Damp Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Loading Doors and Entrances (20-50 fc)
  • Exterior Yard and Approach Areas (1-10 fc)
Post Top Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for post top lighting applications.

 Varies by area (1-15 fc)
View area guidance
  • Pedestrian Pathways (1-5 fc)
  • Parks and Greenspaces (1-5 fc)
  • HOA and Residential Common Areas (1-5 fc)
  • Campus Walkways and Courtyards (2-10 fc)
  • Commercial Common Areas (2-10 fc)
  • Small Parking Lots and Parking Areas (2-10 fc)
  • Outdoor Building Corridors (2-10 fc)
  • Playgrounds and Recreation Areas (2-10 fc)
  • Decorative Streetscapes and Plazas (1-5 fc)
  • Security-Sensitive Pedestrian Areas (5-15 fc)
Quonset Huts

Planning foot-candle ranges for commercial Quonset huts, curved metal buildings, storage areas, workshops, equipment bays, agricultural spaces, utility rooms, damp areas, entrances, and exterior approaches.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Quonset Hut Areas (20-35 fc)
  • Storage and Warehousing (15-30 fc)
  • General Work Areas (25-50 fc)
  • Workshop Operations (50-75 fc)
  • Precision Work Zones (75-100 fc)
  • Administrative Areas and Offices (30-50 fc)
  • Agricultural and Mixed-Use Areas (20-40 fc)
  • Damp, Utility, and Washdown-Adjacent Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Entrances and Loading Doors (20-50 fc)
  • Exterior Approaches and Yard Areas (1-10 fc)
Schools

Planning foot-candle ranges for classrooms, corridors, offices, libraries, cafeterias, gyms, sports fields, parking areas, entries, and campus exterior spaces.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Classrooms and General Learning Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Corridors and Hallways (10-30 fc)
  • Libraries and Media Centers (30-50 fc)
  • Administrative Offices (30-50 fc)
  • Cafeterias and Multi-Purpose Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • School Gymnasiums and Recreational Courts (50-100 fc)
  • School Sports Fields (30-100 fc)
  • Parking Lots, Bus Loops, and Drop-Off Areas (1-5 fc)
  • Building Entries and Exterior Walkways (5-20 fc)
  • Maintenance, Storage, and Utility Areas (20-50 fc)
Shop Lighting

Shop lights are used in garages, workshops, automotive service bays, maintenance areas, hobby spaces, storage rooms, and commercial workspaces where clear, even task and general lighting is needed at lower to mid mounting heights.

 Varies by area (10-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Shop and Workshop Lighting (30-50 fc)
  • Automotive Service Bays (50-100 fc)
  • Workbenches and Task Areas (75-150 fc)
  • Woodworking and Fabrication Shops (50-100 fc)
  • Home Garages and Hobby Shops (30-75 fc)
  • Commercial Workshops (50-100 fc)
  • Storage and Parts Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Wash Bays and Damp Shop Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Inspection and Detailing Areas (100-200 fc)
Shopping Malls

Planning foot-candle ranges for shopping mall parking lots, parking garages, entrances, exterior walkways, loading areas, service roads, common areas, retail spaces, food courts, restrooms, and back-of-house areas.

 Varies by area (1-50 fc)
View area guidance
  • Parking Lots (2-5 fc)
  • Parking Garages (5-10 fc)
  • Mall Entrances and Lobbies (20-30 fc)
  • Exterior Walkways and Plazas (5-20 fc)
  • Loading Docks and Service Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Service Roads and Perimeters (1-5 fc)
  • Interior Mall Walkways and Common Areas (10-20 fc)
  • Retail Stores and Merchandise Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Food Courts and Seating Areas (20-40 fc)
  • Restrooms (10-30 fc)
  • Back-of-House and Storage Areas (10-30 fc)
Solar Area Lighting

Planning foot-candle ranges for solar-powered outdoor area lighting in parking areas, pathways, perimeters, remote lots, storage yards, parks, and general site areas.

 Varies by area (1-20 fc)
View area guidance
  • Parking Areas (1-5 fc)
  • Pathways and Walkways (5-20 fc)
  • Building Perimeters (1-5 fc)
  • Remote Lots and Storage Yards (1-5 fc)
  • Parks and Recreation Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Gates and Service Access Points (5-20 fc)
Solar Parking Lots

Planning foot-candle ranges for commercial solar parking lots, drive lanes, entrances, pedestrian routes, security areas, remote lots, overflow parking, and exterior access areas.

 Varies by area (1-20 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Parking Areas (1-5 fc)
  • Drive Lanes (1-5 fc)
  • Entrances and Exits (5-20 fc)
  • Pedestrian Walkways and Paths (1-5 fc)
  • Security-Sensitive Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Remote and Overflow Parking Lots (1-5 fc)
  • Loading and Service Access Areas (5-20 fc)
Solar Street Lights

Planning foot-candle ranges for solar-powered street and roadway-style lighting on private roads, campus roads, access roads, service roads, remote roads, and low-to-moderate traffic areas.

 Varies by area (0.5-20 fc)
View area guidance
  • Private Roads (0.5-2 fc)
  • Campus Roads (1-3 fc)
  • Access Roads and Service Roads (0.5-2 fc)
  • Remote Roadways (0.5-2 fc)
  • Parking Lot Drive Aisles (1-5 fc)
  • Gate Entries and Roadway Access Points (5-20 fc)
Storage Facilities

Planning foot-candle ranges for commercial storage facilities, indoor corridors, storage units, drive aisles, loading areas, offices, exterior building perimeters, gates, parking areas, and security-sensitive zones.

 Varies by area (1-50 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Storage Corridors (10-30 fc)
  • Interior Storage Units (5-20 fc)
  • Climate-Controlled Storage Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Office, Retail, and Front Desk Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Loading and Unloading Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Exterior Drive Aisles (1-10 fc)
  • Building Perimeters (1-10 fc)
  • Gates, Keypads, and Entry Points (10-30 fc)
  • Parking and Customer Areas (1-10 fc)
  • Security-Sensitive Zones (5-20 fc)
Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Planning foot-candle ranges for grocery aisles, produce, checkout, deli, bakery, butcher, refrigerated cases, stockrooms, offices, loading docks, parking lots, and exterior areas.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Parking Lot and Building Exterior (1-5 fc)
  • Store Entrance and Lobby (10-20 fc)
  • General Grocery Aisles (30-50 fc)
  • Fresh Produce Areas (50-70 fc)
  • Checkout Counters (70-100 fc)
  • Deli, Bakery, and Butcher Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Seafood and Meat Display Cases (75-100 fc)
  • Frozen and Refrigerated Food Cases (40-60 fc)
  • Floral Section (75-100 fc)
  • Stockroom and Storage Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Restrooms and Employee Areas (10-20 fc)
  • Office and Administrative Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Loading Docks and Receiving Areas (20-50 fc)
Tunnel Lighting

Planning foot-candle ranges for tunnel access, threshold, transition, interior, and exit zones.

 Varies by area (2-80 fc)
View area guidance
  • Access Zone (5-10 fc)
  • Threshold Zone (40-80 fc)
  • Transition Zone (10-40 fc)
  • Interior Zone (2-10 fc)
  • Exit Zone (10-50 fc)
Walk-In Cooler Lighting

Planning foot-candle ranges for walk-in coolers, freezers, storage shelving, loading access, and food handling areas.

 10-50 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • General Storage Areas (10-20 fc)
  • Shelving and Aisles (15-30 fc)
  • Food Preparation and Handling Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Walk-In Freezers (10-20 fc)
  • Entry and Loading Access (20-50 fc)
Wall Pack Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for wall pack lighting applications.

 Varies by area (1-30 fc)
View area guidance
  • Building Perimeter Security Lighting (2-10 fc)
  • Entrances and Exit Doors (5-20 fc)
  • Walkways and Sidewalks (2-10 fc)
  • Loading Docks and Service Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Storage Facilities and Self-Storage Buildings (2-10 fc)
  • Warehouse Exterior Walls (2-15 fc)
  • Retail and Commercial Building Exteriors (2-15 fc)
  • Parking Garage Entrances and Perimeter Walls (5-20 fc)
  • Schools, Campuses, and Public Buildings (2-15 fc)
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Exterior Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Dark-Sky-Sensitive Wall Lighting (1-10 fc)
  • Metal Halide Wall Pack Replacement (2-20 fc)

Foot-candle values are general planning guidance, not universal code requirements. Confirm maintained light levels, measurement plane, uniformity, glare, emergency or egress criteria, and local requirements with a photometric plan or qualified lighting or electrical professional for large, public, sports, hazardous, industrial, healthcare, school, roadway, tunnel, or other safety-sensitive projects.

power plant LED lighting

Industrial environments often require specialized lighting that meets both safety and classification requirements. The National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) provides detailed requirements for hazardous location lighting installations. Additionally, fixtures used in these environments must be tested and certified by UL (Underwriters Laboratories) to ensure they meet the necessary safety standards for their specific classification.

Industrial Note: Lighting Level Targets vs Hazardous Location Requirements

Foot-candles describe how much light you need for tasks and safety. Hazardous location classifications (NEC/UL/ATEX/IECEx) describe what equipment you are allowed to install based on ignition risk. These are related to the project but are not the same requirement.

Select a lighting category, application, and area to see general planning guidance, typical mounting height, fixture recommendations, and project considerations.

Application Area Foot-Candle Span Details
Aircraft Hangar Lighting

Aircraft hangar lighting supports aircraft storage, maintenance, inspection, assembly, MRO work, door transition areas, and related aviation support spaces where high ceilings, aircraft clearance, uniformity, glare control, and task visibility are critical.

 Varies by area (20-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Aircraft Storage and General Hangar Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Routine Aircraft Maintenance (30-50 fc)
  • Detailed Aircraft Maintenance (70-100 fc)
  • Aircraft Inspection and Quality Control (50-200 fc)
  • Drilling, Riveting, and Fastening (75-100 fc)
  • Final Assembly Work (100-150 fc)
  • Welding and Fabrication Support Areas (50-75 fc)
  • MRO and Service Bays (50-100 fc)
  • Hangar Doors and Apron Transition Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Parts, Tooling, and Support Areas (30-75 fc)
Brewery Lighting

Brewery lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for brewing and fermentation areas, packaging lines, wash-down zones, storage and cellar areas, quality control, taprooms, and general circulation.

 Varies by area (5-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Brewing and Fermentation Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Packaging, Canning, and Bottling Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Wash-Down and Cleaning Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Storage, Cellar, and Keg Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Quality Control and Inspection Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Taproom, Bar, and Customer Areas (20-40 fc)
  • Walkways and General Circulation Areas (5-20 fc)
Container Yard and Port Terminal Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for container yards, port terminals, cargo handling areas, crane zones, truck lanes, rail transfer areas, docks, security checkpoints, inspection areas, and marine terminal support facilities.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Container Terminal Areas (5-10 fc)
  • Container Yards and Stacking Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Loading, Unloading, and Transfer Aprons (20-50 fc)
  • Crane Work Zones (20-50 fc)
  • Truck Staging and Transfer Lanes (5-20 fc)
  • Rail Intermodal Transfer Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Container Inspection and Repair Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Reefer Container Service Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Marine Docks, Berths, Piers, and Wharves (5-30 fc)
  • Security Perimeters, Gates, and Checkpoints (5-20 fc)
  • Fuel, Chemical, and Classified Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Port Warehouses, Shops, and Support Buildings (20-75 fc)
  • Emergency Egress, Muster, and Rescue Routes (1-10 fc)
Correctional Facilities

Planning foot-candle ranges for correctional cells, corridors, dayrooms, control rooms, kitchens, showers, sally ports, exterior perimeters, and access areas.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Cells and Living Units (20-50 fc)
  • Corridors and Secure Hallways (10-20 fc)
  • Dayrooms and Common Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Dining and Recreation Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Control Rooms and Security Posts (30-50 fc)
  • Intake, Processing, and Indoor Sally Ports (20-50 fc)
  • Outdoor Sally Port Entrances (5-20 fc)
  • Showers, Restrooms, and Wet Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Kitchens and Service Areas (30-100 fc)
  • Exterior Perimeter and Yards (5-20 fc)
  • Parking, Access, and Service Roads (1-10 fc)
Distilleries

Foot-candle ranges for distillation areas, barrel storage, bottling lines, wash-down zones, tasting rooms, offices, and classified production areas.

 10-75 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • Distillation and Production Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Bottling and Packaging Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Storage, Warehousing, and Barrel Areas (10-20 fc)
  • Wash-Down and Cleaning Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Classified Vapor or Hazardous Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Tasting Rooms and Visitor Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Office and Administrative Spaces (30-50 fc)
Explosion Proof and Hazardous Area Lighting

Explosion proof and hazardous-location fixtures must be selected based on the required lighting level and the applicable hazardous-location classification.

 Varies by area (1-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Classified General Work Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Process and Production Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Chemical Handling, Mixing, and Transfer Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Chemical Storage and Tank Farm Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Paint Spray Booths and Spray Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Paint Mixing and Solvent Storage Rooms (30-75 fc)
  • Fine Finishing, Inspection, and Touch-Up Areas (75-150 fc)
  • Distillery and Alcohol Production Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Distillery Bottling, Filtering, and Packaging (50-100 fc)
  • Fuel Transfer, Loading, and Unloading Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Pump Rooms and Compressor Stations (30-75 fc)
  • Wastewater Pump Stations and Treatment Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Grain Handling, Conveyors, and Elevator Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Dust Collection, Baghouse, and Silo Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Food Processing Combustible Dust Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Battery Rooms, Hydrogen, and Energy Storage Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Mining, Conveyor, and Ore Processing Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Foundries and General Metal Processing (30-75 fc)
  • Foundry Medium Inspection Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Foundry Fine Inspection Areas (100-200 fc)
  • Classified Walkways, Stairs, and Platforms (10-30 fc)
  • Classified Maintenance and Service Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Classified Loading Docks and Covered Loading Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Outdoor Classified Yards and Process Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Classified Emergency Egress Routes (1-10 fc)
Factory Lighting

Factory lighting supports manufacturing floors, production lines, assembly areas, machine operation, inspection, packaging, material handling, and harsh industrial environments where task visibility, uniformity, glare control, durability, and safety are critical.

 Varies by area (20-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Factory Floor Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Production Lines (50-100 fc)
  • Simple Assembly Areas (30-60 fc)
  • Detailed Assembly Areas (75-150 fc)
  • Machine Operation Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Quality Control and Inspection Areas (100-200 fc)
  • Packaging and Labeling Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Material Handling and Aisles (20-50 fc)
  • Loading, Shipping, and Receiving (30-50 fc)
  • Maintenance and Tool Rooms (50-100 fc)
  • High-Temperature Production Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Wet, Dusty, or Harsh Production Areas (30-75 fc)
Food Processing and NSF Rated Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for food processing and nsf rated lighting applications.

 Varies by area (10-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Food Processing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Food Prep and Production Lines (50-100 fc)
  • Meat Processing Areas (75-100 fc)
  • Poultry Processing Areas (75-100 fc)
  • Seafood Processing Areas (75-100 fc)
  • Dairy and Milk Processing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Bakery and Confectionery Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Washdown and Splash Zones (50-100 fc)
  • Quality Control and Inspection Areas (75-150 fc)
  • HACCP Critical Control Points (75-150 fc)
  • Packaging and Labeling Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Cold Storage and Cooler Rooms (20-30 fc)
  • Freezer Rooms (10-20 fc)
  • Food Storage Warehouses (20-50 fc)
  • Ingredient Batching and Mixing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Commercial Kitchens (50-100 fc)
  • Food Laboratories and Sample Testing (75-150 fc)
  • Grocery Prep, Deli, and Bakery Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Breweries and Beverage Production (30-75 fc)
  • High-Temperature Food Processing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Wet Processing and Drain Areas (50-100 fc)
High Temperature Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for high temperature lighting applications.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General High-Temperature Industrial Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Steel Mills and Rolling Mills (30-75 fc)
  • Electric Arc Furnace and Melt Shop Support Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Foundries and Casting Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Foundry Inspection and Finishing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Aluminum Smelting and Potline Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Glass Manufacturing Hot-End Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Kilns, Industrial Ovens, and Dryer Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Heat Treating, Forging, and Hot Work Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Power Generation Turbine Halls (20-50 fc)
  • Boiler Rooms and Steam Plant Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Nuclear Facility Support Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Pulp and Paper Dryer Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Cement, Lime, and Kiln Processing Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Ceramic, Brick, and Tile Manufacturing (20-50 fc)
  • Food Processing Ovens and Industrial Bakeries (30-75 fc)
  • Commercial Kitchen High-Heat Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Engine Test Cells and Dynamometer Rooms (50-100 fc)
  • Dry Processing and Hot Packaging Areas (30-75 fc)
  • High-Temperature Maintenance Platforms and Walkways (10-30 fc)
  • High-Temperature Hazardous Classified Areas (20-50 fc)
Laboratories

Planning foot-candle ranges for general laboratories, benches, research spaces, clean labs, wet labs, chemical storage, washdown areas, offices, and support spaces.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Laboratory Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Lab Benches and Task Areas (75-100 fc)
  • Research and Testing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Clean Labs and Controlled Environments (50-100 fc)
  • Wet Labs and Washdown Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Chemical Storage Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Instrument and Equipment Rooms (30-75 fc)
  • Lab Offices and Documentation Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Corridors and Support Spaces (10-30 fc)
Military Base Lighting

Military base lighting supports administrative buildings, barracks, training spaces, maintenance shops, motor pools, hangars, warehouses, armories, hazardous material areas, perimeter security, checkpoints, parking, airfield support, naval facilities, and emergency response spaces.

 Varies by area (1-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Administrative Offices and Command Spaces (30-50 fc)
  • Barracks and Living Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Training Rooms and Classrooms (30-70 fc)
  • Maintenance Shops and Workshops (50-100 fc)
  • Motor Pools and Vehicle Bays (30-75 fc)
  • Aircraft Hangars and Aviation Maintenance (50-150 fc)
  • Warehouses and Supply Storage (20-50 fc)
  • Armories and Secure Storage (30-75 fc)
  • Fuel, Ordnance, and Hazardous Material Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Perimeter Security Zones (1-10 fc)
  • Gates, Checkpoints, and Entry Control Points (5-20 fc)
  • Parking Lots, Roadways, and Exterior Circulation (1-5 fc)
  • Airfields, Aprons, and Ramp Support Areas (2-20 fc)
  • Naval, Marine, Dock, and Pier Areas (5-50 fc)
  • Emergency Response and Rescue Areas (50-150 fc)
Mining Operations

Planning foot-candle ranges for underground mining areas, tunnels, drilling zones, loading areas, processing plants, storage areas, and support spaces.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Underground Primary Mining Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Drilling and Blasting Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Transport and Access Tunnels (10-30 fc)
  • Loading and Haulage Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Processing, Crushing, and Conveyor Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Storage and Laydown Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Break Rooms, Offices, and Support Spaces (20-30 fc)
  • Maintenance Bays and Repair Shops (50-100 fc)
Oil, Gas, Refinery, and Petrochemical Lighting

Oil, gas, refinery, petrochemical, drilling rig, offshore platform, pipeline, terminal, tank farm, and petroleum facility lighting requires proper hazardous-location ratings, corrosion resistance, vibration resistance, temperature suitability, photometric planning, and application-specific foot-candle targets.

 Varies by area (0.1-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Refinery and Petrochemical Process Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Valve, Gauge, Instrument, and Task Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Maintenance, Turnaround, and Work Platforms (30-75 fc)
  • Drilling Rig Floors and Derrick Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Offshore Platform Decks and Walkways (5-30 fc)
  • Tank Farms and Storage Areas (2-10 fc)
  • Loading Racks, Terminals, and Transfer Areas (10-50 fc)
  • Pipeline, Pump, and Compressor Stations (5-30 fc)
  • Control Rooms, MCC Rooms, and Administrative Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Warehouses, Shops, and Industrial Support Buildings (20-75 fc)
  • Parking, Security, and Perimeter Areas (1-10 fc)
  • Emergency Egress and Evacuation Routes (0.1-5 fc)
  • Marine Docks, Piers, and Ship Loading Areas (5-50 fc)
Overhead Cranes

Planning foot-candle ranges for overhead crane work zones, hook and load visibility, precision positioning, warehouse laydown areas, maintenance bays, steel and fabrication areas, and outdoor gantry crane areas.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Crane Work Zones (30-50 fc)
  • Hook and Load Visibility (30-75 fc)
  • Precision Lifting and Positioning Tasks (50-100 fc)
  • Blue Spot and Perimeter Warning Projection Zones (20-50 fc)
  • Warehouse and Laydown Areas Served by Cranes (20-50 fc)
  • Crane Maintenance and Service Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Steel, Fabrication, and Heavy Industrial Crane Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Outdoor Gantry Crane Areas (10-30 fc)
Paint Booth Lighting

Paint booth lighting supports spray booths, finishing booths, prep areas, inspection zones, paint mix rooms, solvent handling areas, sidewall illumination, and large equipment booths where hazardous-location ratings, color quality, uniformity, glare control, airflow, and cleaning access are critical.

 Varies by area (30-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Automotive Spray Booths (50-80 fc)
  • Industrial Spray Booths and Finishing Booths (50-100 fc)
  • Precision Detail Paint Work (80-150 fc)
  • Paint Inspection and Quality Control (100-150 fc)
  • Prep, Sanding, and Masking Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Paint Mix Rooms and Solvent Storage Support (50-100 fc)
  • Booth Entry, Exit, and Door Zones (30-75 fc)
  • Sidewall and Vertical Surface Illumination (80-150 fc)
  • Truck and Large Equipment Paint Booths (75-150 fc)
  • Booth Maintenance and Cleaning Lighting (30-75 fc)
Paper Mills

Planning foot-candle ranges for pulp and paper processing, dryer sections, wet-end areas, chemical storage, dust collection, quality control, maintenance, storage, control rooms, and offices.

 20-100 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • General Work Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Processing and Production Areas (50-75 fc)
  • Inspection and Quality Control (50-100 fc)
  • Maintenance Areas and Repair Shops (30-75 fc)
  • Control Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Raw Material and Finished Goods Storage (20-30 fc)
  • Administrative Offices (20-30 fc)
  • Chemical Storage and Handling Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Dust Collection and Baghouse Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Dryer Sections, Boiler Rooms, and High-Heat Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Wet-End, Press Sections, and Steam Areas (30-75 fc)
Power Plants

Planning foot-candle ranges for power generation facilities, turbine halls, boiler rooms, high-temperature areas, maintenance platforms, control rooms, switchgear, hazardous areas, nuclear-related spaces, outdoor yards, and security perimeters.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Industrial Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Turbine Halls and Generator Rooms (50-100 fc)
  • Boiler, Steam, and High-Heat Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Maintenance Platforms and Service Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Control Rooms and Monitoring Stations (30-50 fc)
  • Electrical and Switchgear Rooms (30-75 fc)
  • Hazardous-Location and Fuel Handling Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Nuclear-Qualified and Safety-Related Areas (30-100 fc)
  • Egress, Stairways, and Walkways (10-30 fc)
  • Outdoor Yards and Security Perimeters (2-20 fc)
  • Parking, Roads, and Site Access (1-10 fc)
Railroad Yard Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for railroad classification yards, arrival and departure tracks, inspection areas, locomotive service zones, freight transfer areas, crossings, gates, and maintenance buildings.

 Varies by area (2-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Railroad Yard Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Classification and Switching Yards (10-30 fc)
  • Arrival and Departure Tracks (5-20 fc)
  • Railcar Inspection Tracks (30-75 fc)
  • Locomotive Service Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Freight Loading and Unloading Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Rail Intermodal Transfer Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Track Crossings and Employee Walkways (2-10 fc)
  • Security Gates, Access Points, and Perimeters (5-20 fc)
  • Locomotive and Railcar Maintenance Shops (50-100 fc)
  • Fueling, Chemical, and Classified Areas (20-50 fc)
Vapor Tight Lighting

Foot-candle guidance for vapor tight lighting applications.

 Varies by area (5-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Food Processing and Washdown Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Cold Storage and Freezer Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Parking Garages (5-20 fc)
  • Car Washes (20-50 fc)
  • Barns, Stables, and Agricultural Buildings (10-30 fc)
  • Marine, Marinas, and Boat Docks (5-20 fc)
  • Tunnels, Subways, and Transit Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Natatoriums and Pool Support Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Commercial Back-of-House and Service Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Loading Docks and Service Bays (10-30 fc)
  • Mechanical and Utility Rooms (20-50 fc)
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants

Planning foot-candle ranges for water and wastewater treatment plants, pump rooms, wet wells, headworks, digesters, chemical rooms, control rooms, labs, maintenance shops, walkways, basins, outdoor yards, and hazardous-location areas.

 Varies by area (2-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • General Work Areas (20-30 fc)
  • Pump Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Wet Wells and Headworks (20-50 fc)
  • Digesters and Sludge Processing Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Chemical Storage and Handling Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Chlorine and Chemical Feed Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Control Rooms (30-50 fc)
  • Laboratory and Sample Testing Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Maintenance Shops and Repair Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Walkways, Platforms, and Stairs (10-30 fc)
  • Basins, Tanks, and Outdoor Process Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Security Perimeter and Site Access (2-20 fc)

Foot-candle values are general planning guidance, not universal code requirements. Confirm maintained light levels, measurement plane, uniformity, glare, emergency or egress criteria, and local requirements with a photometric plan or qualified lighting or electrical professional for large, public, sports, hazardous, industrial, healthcare, school, roadway, tunnel, or other safety-sensitive projects.

Recommended Foot Candles for Sports Projects

Baseball Softball Fields

Select a lighting category, application, and area to see general planning guidance, typical mounting height, fixture recommendations, and project considerations.

Application Area Foot-Candle Span Details
Baseball Field Lighting

Baseball field lighting uses infield and outfield foot-candle targets by level of play, with photometric verification for pole placement, fixture aiming, uniformity, glare control, spill light, vertical illumination, and existing pole capacity.

 Varies by area (5-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Recreational Baseball - Infield (30-50 fc)
  • Recreational Baseball - Outfield (15-30 fc)
  • High School Baseball - Infield (50-70 fc)
  • High School Baseball - Outfield (30-50 fc)
  • Little League Baseball - Infield (50 fc)
  • Little League Baseball - Outfield (30 fc)
  • Collegiate Baseball - Infield (70-100 fc)
  • Collegiate Baseball - Outfield (50-70 fc)
  • Televised Collegiate Baseball - Infield (100-150 fc)
  • Televised Collegiate Baseball - Outfield (70-100 fc)
  • Batting Cages, Bullpens, and Practice Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Spectator Walkways, Dugouts, and Support Areas (5-20 fc)
Basketball Court Lighting

Basketball court lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for indoor recreational courts, school and competitive courts, college or professional courts, outdoor recreational courts, outdoor competitive courts, and multi-sport courts.

 Varies by area (10-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Recreational Basketball Courts (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor School and Competitive Courts (50-80 fc)
  • Indoor College and Professional Courts (80-150 fc)
  • Outdoor Recreational and Backyard Courts (10-30 fc)
  • Outdoor Competitive Basketball Courts (30-60 fc)
  • Multi-Sport Courts with Basketball (20-50 fc)
Batting Cage Lighting

Batting cage lighting uses target foot-candle ranges for indoor recreational cages, indoor team training cages, advanced training cages, outdoor recreational cages, outdoor team training cages, pitching tunnels, and bullpen training areas.

 20-100 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • Indoor Recreational Batting Cages (20-30 fc)
  • Indoor Team Training and School Cages (40-60 fc)
  • Indoor Advanced and Competitive Training Cages (60-100 fc)
  • Outdoor Recreational Batting Cages (20-40 fc)
  • Outdoor Team Training Batting Cages (40-70 fc)
  • Pitching Tunnels and Bullpen Training Areas (30-60 fc)
Cricket Grounds, Pitches, and Practice Nets

Foot-candle ranges for community, school, club, league, practice-net, and support-area cricket lighting.

 Varies by area (5-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Community and Recreational Cricket Grounds (20-30 fc)
  • School and Local League Cricket (30-50 fc)
  • Club and Higher-Level Amateur Cricket (50-75 fc)
  • Cricket Practice Nets (30-50 fc)
  • Boundary, Team, and Spectator Areas (5-20 fc)
Field Hockey Fields and Hockey Pitches

Foot-candle ranges for training, recreational, school, local league, club, and higher-level amateur field hockey.

 Varies by area (5-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Training and Recreational Field Hockey (20-30 fc)
  • School and Local League Field Hockey (30-50 fc)
  • Club and Higher-Level Amateur Field Hockey (50-75 fc)
  • Multi-Use Field Hockey and Soccer Pitch (30-50 fc)
  • Sidelines, Team Areas, and Spectator Zones (5-20 fc)
Football Field Lighting

Football field lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by level of play and field use, with photometric verification for pole placement, fixture aiming, uniformity, glare control, spill light, vertical illumination, existing pole capacity, and electrical compatibility.

 Varies by area (5-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Practice Football Fields (10-20 fc)
  • Recreational Football Fields (10-30 fc)
  • Middle School Football Fields (30-50 fc)
  • Small High School Football Fields (30-50 fc)
  • Large High School Football Fields (50-70 fc)
  • Collegiate Football Fields (80-120 fc)
  • Televised Collegiate Football Fields (120-150 fc)
  • End Zones, Sidelines, and Bench Areas (10-50 fc)
  • Football Fields with Tracks or Multipurpose Use (20-50 fc)
  • Walkways, Bleachers, and Support Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Youth and Recreational Flag Football (15-25 fc)
  • School and Community Flag Football (20-30 fc)
  • League and Local Tournament Flag Football (30-50 fc)
  • Flag Football Practice Fields (10-20 fc)
  • Sidelines, Team Areas, and Spectator Zones (5-15 fc)
Golf Courses and Driving Ranges

Foot-candle ranges for tee boxes, fairways, putting greens, driving ranges, and golf practice areas.

 Varies by area (5-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Tee Box Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Fairway Zones (10-20 fc)
  • Putting Greens (50-100 fc)
  • Recreational Driving Range (30-50 fc)
  • Club-Level Driving Range (50-75 fc)
  • Short-Game and Practice Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Walkways, Spectator, and Service Areas (5-20 fc)
Horse Arena and Rodeo Lighting

Horse arena and rodeo arena lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by arena type and use, with photometric verification for uniformity, shadow control, glare to horses and riders, dust visibility, indoor or outdoor mounting, pole placement, electrical compatibility, and support areas.

 Varies by area (5-50 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Recreational Riding Arenas (5-15 fc)
  • Indoor Training and Lesson Arenas (15-30 fc)
  • Indoor Competition Riding Arenas (30-50 fc)
  • Covered Open-Sided Riding Arenas (10-30 fc)
  • Outdoor Recreational Riding Arenas (5-15 fc)
  • Outdoor Training Arenas (15-30 fc)
  • Outdoor Competition Riding Arenas (30-50 fc)
  • Rodeo Arenas - Recreational and Practice (10-30 fc)
  • Rodeo Arenas - Events and Local Competitions (30-50 fc)
  • Barn Aisles, Stalls, Wash Bays, and Support Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Spectator, Walkway, Parking, and Entry Areas (5-20 fc)
Ice Rinks

Planning foot-candle ranges for hockey rinks, figure skating rinks, curling sheets, and outdoor ice rinks.

 Varies by area (20-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Hockey - Practice / General Use (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor Hockey - Competition Level (50-100 fc)
  • Indoor Hockey - Broadcast / Professional Level (100-150 fc)
  • Figure Skating - Practice / General Use (30-50 fc)
  • Figure Skating - Competition Level (50-100 fc)
  • Figure Skating - Televised Events (100-150 fc)
  • Curling - Practice / General Use (30-50 fc)
  • Curling - Competition Level (50-100 fc)
  • Outdoor Hockey - Practice / General Use (20-50 fc)
  • Outdoor Hockey - Competition Level (50-100 fc)
Lacrosse Fields for Schools, Leagues, and Communities

Foot-candle ranges for practice, recreational, school, league, and higher-level amateur lacrosse fields.

 Varies by area (5-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Practice and Recreational Lacrosse (20-30 fc)
  • School and Local League Lacrosse (30-50 fc)
  • Club and Higher-Level Amateur Lacrosse (50-75 fc)
  • Multi-Use Lacrosse, Soccer, and Football Fields (30-50 fc)
  • Sidelines, Team Areas, and Spectator Zones (5-20 fc)
Natatoriums and Pools

Planning foot-candle ranges for indoor pools, competition pools, aquatic centers, pool decks, spectator areas, locker rooms, and pool support spaces.

 Varies by area (10-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Recreational Indoor Pools (30-50 fc)
  • Competition and Training Pools (50-100 fc)
  • Diving Pools and Platform Areas (50-100 fc)
  • Spectator Seating (10-30 fc)
  • Pool Decks and Walkways (10-30 fc)
  • Locker Rooms and Changing Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Pool Equipment and Chemical Rooms (20-50 fc)
  • Humid Corridors and Pool Support Areas (10-30 fc)
Padel Courts

Planning foot-candle ranges for indoor padel courts, outdoor padel courts, club play, recreational play, competition play, and spectator/viewing areas.

 10-75 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • Recreational Padel Courts (20-30 fc)
  • Club Level Padel Courts (30-50 fc)
  • Competition Padel Courts (50-75 fc)
  • Indoor Padel Facilities (30-75 fc)
  • Outdoor Padel Courts (30-75 fc)
  • Spectator and Viewing Areas (10-30 fc)
Pickleball Court Lighting

Pickleball court lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by indoor, outdoor, recreational, club, competition, and multi-court applications, with photometric verification for ball tracking, player sightlines, uniformity, glare control, pole placement, court safety zones, spill light, impact resistance, ceiling height, electrical compatibility, and controls.

 Varies by area (5-120 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Recreational Pickleball Courts (30 fc)
  • Indoor Club-Level Pickleball Courts (50 fc)
  • Indoor Competition Pickleball Courts (75 fc)
  • Indoor Indirect Pickleball Lighting (30-70 fc)
  • Outdoor Recreational Pickleball Courts (30 fc)
  • Outdoor Club-Level Pickleball Courts (50 fc)
  • Outdoor Competition Pickleball Courts (75 fc)
  • Broadcast or Event Pickleball Courts (80-120 fc)
  • Multi-Court Pickleball Complexes (30-80 fc)
  • Walkways, Spectator Areas, Entries, and Support Spaces (5-20 fc)
Polo Fields

Planning foot-candle ranges for polo fields, training fields, club matches, tournament play, arena polo, practice areas, spectator zones, and horse staging areas.

 Varies by area (1-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Training and Practice Fields (10-30 fc)
  • Club Match Polo Fields (20-40 fc)
  • Professional and Tournament Polo Fields (30-60 fc)
  • Arena Polo and Enclosed Fields (30-75 fc)
  • Warm-Up and Horse Staging Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Spectator and Viewing Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Parking and Site Access Areas (1-10 fc)
Race Track Lighting

Race track lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by track type and zone, with photometric verification for straightaways, turns, pit areas, spectator zones, driver sightlines, glare control, dust, pole placement, beam angles, spill light, existing pole capacity, and electrical compatibility.

 Varies by area (5-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Regional Dirt Track - Straightaways (20-30 fc)
  • Regional Dirt Track - Turns and Corners (30-50 fc)
  • Club and Amateur Track - Straightaways (25-40 fc)
  • Club and Amateur Track - Turns and Corners (40-60 fc)
  • Semi-Professional Track - Straightaways (30-50 fc)
  • Semi-Professional Track - Turns and Corners (50-80 fc)
  • Professional Race Course - Straightaways (50-75 fc)
  • Professional Race Course - Turns and Corners (75-100 fc)
  • Motocross, BMX, and Karting - Straightaways (20-30 fc)
  • Motocross, BMX, and Karting - Turns and Technical Sections (30-50 fc)
  • Pit Areas - Regional and Club Tracks (50-80 fc)
  • Pit Areas - Semi-Pro and Professional Tracks (75-150 fc)
  • Spectator Stands and Viewing Areas (10-50 fc)
  • Parking, Entry, Walkways, and Support Areas (5-20 fc)
Rugby Pitches for Community, School, and Club Play

Foot-candle ranges for rugby training, community, school, club, and higher-level amateur pitches.

 Varies by area (5-75 fc)
View area guidance
  • Training and Recreational Rugby (15-30 fc)
  • School and Community Rugby (25-40 fc)
  • Club and Local League Rugby (30-50 fc)
  • Higher-Level Amateur Rugby (50-75 fc)
  • Touchlines, Team Areas, and Spectator Zones (5-20 fc)
Shooting Ranges

Planning foot-candle ranges for outdoor shooting ranges, trap fields, skeet fields, indoor firing lines, indoor target areas, instruction areas, and equipment handling zones.

 20-100 fc across areas
View area guidance
  • Indoor Firing Line and Shooting Stalls (50-100 fc)
  • Indoor Target Area (50-100 fc)
  • Indoor Instruction and Staging Areas (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor Ammunition and Equipment Handling (50-75 fc)
  • Outdoor Shooting Range General Area (20-50 fc)
  • Outdoor Shooting Range Target Area (40-100 fc)
  • Trap Shooting Stations (20-40 fc)
  • Trap Target Flight Area (40-100 fc)
  • Skeet Shooting Stations (20-40 fc)
  • Skeet Target Flight Area (40-100 fc)
Ski Mountains and Slopes

Planning foot-candle ranges for ski slopes, night skiing trails, beginner areas, competitive terrain, base/lodge areas, terrain parks, lift areas, parking lots, and maintenance/grooming areas.

 Varies by area (1-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Base and Lodge Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Recreational Night Skiing Trails (20-40 fc)
  • Beginner and Learning Slopes (20-30 fc)
  • Advanced and Competition Terrain (40-100 fc)
  • Terrain Parks (30-75 fc)
  • Lift Loading and Unloading Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Grooming and Maintenance Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Parking Lots and Resort Roads (1-10 fc)
Soccer Field Lighting

Soccer field lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by level of play and field use, with photometric verification for pole placement, fixture aiming, uniformity, glare control, spill light, vertical illumination, existing pole capacity, and electrical compatibility.

 Varies by area (5-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Youth and Recreational Soccer Fields (10-20 fc)
  • Club and Amateur Soccer Fields (20-50 fc)
  • Middle School Soccer Fields (20-40 fc)
  • High School Soccer Fields (30-60 fc)
  • College and University Soccer Fields (60-120 fc)
  • Professional / Elite Non-Broadcast Soccer Fields (80-150 fc)
  • Televised Soccer Fields (100-200 fc)
  • Small-Sided Soccer Fields (10-30 fc)
  • Multipurpose Soccer, Football, Lacrosse, and Rec Fields (20-60 fc)
  • Walkways, Bleachers, and Support Areas (5-20 fc)
Softball Field Lighting

Softball field lighting uses separate infield and outfield foot-candle targets by level of play, with photometric verification for pole placement, fixture aiming, uniformity, glare control, spill light, backstop obstructions, existing pole capacity, and electrical compatibility.

 Varies by area (5-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Recreational Softball - Infield (30-50 fc)
  • Recreational Softball - Outfield (15-30 fc)
  • Youth / Little League Softball - Infield (40-60 fc)
  • Youth / Little League Softball - Outfield (25-40 fc)
  • High School / Middle School Softball - Infield (50-70 fc)
  • High School / Middle School Softball - Outfield (30-50 fc)
  • Collegiate Softball - Infield (70-100 fc)
  • Collegiate Softball - Outfield (50-70 fc)
  • Televised Collegiate Softball - Infield (100-150 fc)
  • Televised Collegiate Softball - Outfield (70-100 fc)
  • Batting Cages, Bullpens, and Practice Areas (30-75 fc)
  • Dugouts, Walkways, Bleachers, and Support Areas (5-20 fc)
Sports Domes and Field Houses

Planning foot-candle ranges for indoor sports domes, field houses, indoor turf fields, multi-sport courts, recreational play, competitive play, training zones, spectator areas, and broadcast-sensitive spaces.

 Varies by area (10-150 fc)
View area guidance
  • Recreational Play and General Activities (20-50 fc)
  • Competitive Events (50-100 fc)
  • Broadcast or Televised Events (100-150 fc)
  • Indoor Turf Fields (30-100 fc)
  • Multi-Sport Courts (50-100 fc)
  • Training and Practice Zones (30-75 fc)
  • Spectator and Circulation Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Storage, Equipment, and Service Areas (20-50 fc)
Sports Lighting Overview

Sports lighting targets vary widely by sport, level of play, indoor versus outdoor use, broadcast requirements, and uniformity needs.

 Varies by area (10-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Basketball - Recreational (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor Basketball - High School Level (40-70 fc)
  • Indoor Basketball - College and Professional Level (70-120 fc)
  • Indoor Tennis - Recreation Level (25-40 fc)
  • Indoor Tennis - Club Level (40-70 fc)
  • Indoor Tennis - Competition Level (60-90 fc)
  • Indoor Tennis - College / Televised (90-120 fc)
  • Indoor Pickleball - Recreation Level (25-35 fc)
  • Indoor Pickleball - Club Level (40-60 fc)
  • Indoor Pickleball - Competition Level (60-80 fc)
  • Indoor Horse Arena - Recreational (10-20 fc)
  • Indoor Horse Arena - Professional (20-40 fc)
  • Hockey Rinks - Practice / General Use (30-50 fc)
  • Hockey Rinks - Competition Level (50-100 fc)
  • Hockey Rinks - Professional / Televised (100-150 fc)
  • Baseball Field - Recreational (30-50 fc)
  • Baseball Field - Competitive (50-100 fc)
  • Softball Field - Recreational (20-50 fc)
  • Softball Field - Competitive (50-75 fc)
  • Football Field - Recreational and Practice (20-50 fc)
  • Football Field - Competitive (50-100 fc)
  • Soccer Field - Recreational (20-50 fc)
  • Soccer Field - Competitive (50-100 fc)
  • Multi-Sport Field - Recreational (20-50 fc)
  • Multi-Sport Field - Competitive (50-100 fc)
  • Lacrosse and Field Hockey Fields (30-75 fc)
  • Track and Field Complexes (20-75 fc)
  • Practice Fields - Casual and Youth Training (10-20 fc)
  • Practice Fields - School and Community (20-30 fc)
  • Practice Fields - Full-Speed Team Training (30-50 fc)
  • Practice Fields - Partial-Field and Zoned Training (10-25 fc)
  • Municipal Recreation Complexes (20-75 fc)
  • Professional and Broadcast Sports Venues (100-200 fc)
  • Sports Field Lighting - General (20-75 fc)
  • Racetrack Lighting (30-100 fc)
  • Track and Field Lighting - General (20-75 fc)
  • Golf Driving Range Lighting (20-50 fc)
  • Golf Course Practice Areas (10-30 fc)
  • Ski Mountain and Slope Lighting (10-30 fc)
  • Ski Terrain Parks and Tubing Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Outdoor Arena and Rodeo Lighting (20-50 fc)
Tennis Court Lighting

Tennis court lighting uses target foot-candle ranges by indoor, outdoor, recreational, club, competition, indirect, and multi-court applications, with photometric verification for baseline-to-net visibility, overhead shot glare, ball tracking, uniformity, pole setbacks, court boundaries, spill light, ceiling height, electrical compatibility, controls, and support areas.

 Varies by area (5-100 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Recreational Tennis Courts (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor Club-Level Tennis Courts (40-70 fc)
  • Indoor Competition Tennis Courts (70-100 fc)
  • Indoor Indirect Tennis Lighting (40-100 fc)
  • Outdoor Recreational Tennis Courts (20-40 fc)
  • Outdoor Club-Level Tennis Courts (30-70 fc)
  • Outdoor Competition Tennis Courts (60-100 fc)
  • Multi-Court Tennis Complexes (30-100 fc)
  • Spectator Areas, Walkways, Entries, and Support Spaces (5-20 fc)
Ultimate Frisbee Fields for Community, League, and School Play

Foot-candle ranges for recreational, school, league, tournament, training, and support-area Ultimate Frisbee lighting.

 Varies by area (5-50 fc)
View area guidance
  • Recreational Ultimate Frisbee (15-25 fc)
  • School and Community League Ultimate (25-40 fc)
  • Local Tournament and Higher-Level Amateur Ultimate (40-50 fc)
  • Ultimate Frisbee Training and Practice (15-25 fc)
  • Sidelines, Team Areas, and Spectator Zones (5-15 fc)
Volleyball Court Lighting

Planning foot-candle ranges for indoor and outdoor volleyball courts by level of play.

 Varies by area (20-200 fc)
View area guidance
  • Indoor Recreational Play (30-50 fc)
  • Indoor High School Competition (50-75 fc)
  • Indoor College and Professional Matches (75-125 fc)
  • Indoor Broadcast-Level Play (125-200 fc)
  • Outdoor Recreational Play (20-30 fc)
  • Outdoor High School Competition (30-50 fc)
  • Outdoor College and Professional Matches (50-75 fc)
  • Outdoor Broadcast-Level Play (75-100 fc)
Wiffle Ball Fields

Planning foot-candle ranges for recreational wiffle ball fields, community fields, competitive fields, infields, outfields, batter/pitcher areas, spectator zones, and site access.

 Varies by area (1-70 fc)
View area guidance
  • Recreational Play (20-30 fc)
  • Community Play (30-50 fc)
  • Competitive Play (40-70 fc)
  • Infield, Batter, and Pitcher Areas (30-70 fc)
  • Outfield Areas (20-50 fc)
  • Spectator and Viewing Areas (5-20 fc)
  • Parking and Site Access (1-10 fc)

Foot-candle values are general planning guidance, not universal code requirements. Confirm maintained light levels, measurement plane, uniformity, glare, emergency or egress criteria, and local requirements with a photometric plan or qualified lighting or electrical professional for large, public, sports, hazardous, industrial, healthcare, school, roadway, tunnel, or other safety-sensitive projects.

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