Dark Skies Standards

What is Dark Skies-Friendly Lighting?

  • Light fixtures that are completely shielded and downcast so that the light source is not visible from side view
  • Lighting that directed to illuminate only where it is needed
  • Lighting that does not cast onto neighboring properties
  • Lighting that is only turned on when it needs to be on

When does this apply?

All new developments in Sisters are required to comply with the City's Dark Skies Standards of SDC Chapter 2.15.2400.

The City encourages existing exterior lighting fixtures be progressively replaced with dark-skies friendly options.

What's next for Sisters' Dark Skies Standards?

In 2023, the City Council Goals set reviewing and updating the City's Dark Skies Standards as a priority. To see the latest updates on this project, click here! 2022 Updates to Dark Skies Standards

For examples of what is Dark Skies compliant lighting, see the reference guide below.

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