Pole Foundation Area Calculator
Pole Weight
Fixture Weight
Wind Load
Soil Bearing Capacity
Foundation Area

This light pole foundation calculator helps ensure safe, effective, and proper light pole installation. Using this calculator prioritizes high-quality illumination, and reduces the risk of purchasing excess cast-in-place concrete material saving you project costs while maximizing profitability.
If the projected surface area is prone to high wind pressure and wind force, understanding the pole's overturning moment and considering the public safety factor is essential.
How to Use LED Lighting Supply's Light and Utility Pole Foundation Calculator:
Step One: Enter the Light Pole's Weight (Wp)
Pole Weight (Wp) refers to the weight of the pole on its own in pounds. To determine the light pole's weight, refer to the specifications sheet.
Step Two: Enter the Light Fixture's Weight (Wf)
The light fixture's weight (Wf) applies to street light poles and refers to the weight of any accessories or fixtures attached to the pole, such as street lights, stadium lights, and mounting components.
Step Three: Enter the Pole's Maximum Wind Load Capacity (Ww)
Air density leads to higher wind loads. A light pole's wind load capacity refers to the maximum wind speed the pole can withstand while upholding its structural integrity. The wind load capacity is determined by a government-regulated Effective Projected Area (EPA) rating and varies based on the environmental factors of the region where the light pole is installed. All components of a light pole, including the pole, mounting hardware, and fixtures each have their own EPA rating and wind resistance.
The EPA is calculated by multiplying the Projected Area (A) by the Drag Coefficient (Cd), which measures resistance in the air. Use the formula below:
- EPA Calculation: EPA = A x Cd
Step Four: Enter the Light Pole's Soil-Bearing Capacity
Light pole soil-bearing capacity refers to the maximum weight the soil can support without fail. Soil-bearing capacity is critical for selecting the proper pole solution, as it influences the appropriate footing depth of the soil for safe pole installation and support.
*The calculated pole foundation area is an estimated calculation and should be used as a benchmark.
Step Four: Calculate
Click calculate to determine the light pole's estimated foundation area.
What is the Average Height for Light Poles?
Pole height is a driving factor in adequate light disbursement and minimized glare. In many cases, the higher the light pole, the better the light coverage of the space. LED Lighting Supply's full line of light poles are available in heights from 10 to 70 feet. Larger projects that require ample light coverage, such as a sports field, are suitable for light poles in heights of 30 to 70 feet tall, while smaller projects, such as a street light or parking lot, typically range from 15 to 30 feet in height.