Lighting

Possible Design Problems Potential Troublespots What You Can Do Natural Surveillance Lighting Access Control Signs More Resources

Lighting, either too little, too much, or the wrong kind, is often a problem in parking lots. In open lots, it is difficult to effectively light the whole area, especially since weather conditions may change. In closed lots, because the ceilings are low, the light does not get dispersed evenly, and corners usually remain in darkness. Bad lighting is always an invitation for crime. Offenders are less likely to be spotted, especially in parking lots where they would not be out in the open anyway. Use lighting that will not create glare, or blind drivers. Consider using halide lights rather than the more common sodium lights. Halide lights show true color much better than sodium lights do. Lighting should be uniform. Passing from high to low intensity lighting area may be difficult on drivers. Using bright colors on the walls that reflect light can increase the brightness further. Brightly colored walls frequently invite graffiti, so it is important to use surfaces not suitable for graffiti, or pain that can be easily washed. For more on graffiti and how to prevent it, check our graffiti prevention section. In level lots, natural light should be used to the greatest extent.