Have you ever wondered how tall a streetlight should be, or how far apart lighting poles should be placed? The systems that ensure our cities are safely, comfortably, and aesthetically lit at night are the result of meticulous engineering calculations. Randomly placed lighting poles can lead to energy waste or, worse, poor lighting that jeopardizes pedestrian and traffic safety.
Today, street lighting systems go far beyond simply providing illumination. Integrated into smart city infrastructure, they combine aesthetics, energy efficiency, and functionality. But to unlock all these benefits, we must first answer some fundamental questions correctly: How tall should a lighting pole be? What is the ideal distance between poles?
In this article, we’ll explain how to calculate the ideal height and spacing for street lighting poles, what key factors to consider, and how Işın Daylight delivers expert solutions in this area.
How Is Lighting Pole Height Determined?
The height of lighting poles depends on the type of luminaire used, road width, and the specific characteristics of the area to be illuminated. As a general rule, pole height should be approximately 1.3 to 1.5 times the road width.
Example:
- For a 6-meter-wide road, a lighting pole height of 8 to 9 meters is typically recommended.
- On main roads, this height can reach 10–12 meters, whereas in areas like parks or pedestrian paths, 4–6 meters is generally sufficient.
How to Calculate the Distance (Spacing) Between Lighting Poles
Proper spacing ensures both sufficient lighting and optimal energy efficiency. The distance between poles is typically 2.5 to 3 times the height of the pole. However, this ratio may vary depending on the type of lamp and light distribution characteristics.
Statistic: According to European standards (EN 13201), in residential areas where an average illuminance of 10 lux is required, LED-based street lighting systems typically have pole spacing of 30–40 meters.
Light Distribution and Shadow Elimination
Effective lighting planning involves more than just height and spacing. Factors such as beam angle, fixture selection, and environmental obstructions must also be considered. Ensuring overlapping light distributions helps prevent "dark spots."
Işın Daylight’s urban lighting solutionsoffer maximum efficiency through symmetrical and asymmetrical light distribution options.
Height Selection in Decorative Lighting Poles
Technical performance isn't the only consideration—aesthetics matter too, especially in urban furniture. , decorative lighting polesoften used in historical districts, parks, and pedestrian zones, are usually between 3–5 meters tall. The light level should be low but uniformly distributed.
At Işın Daylight , decorative lighting polesoffer cities the perfect blend of form and function.
Smart Planning with Işın Daylight
Achieving effective results in urban and street lighting is not just about using high-quality products—it also requires precise engineering calculations and planning tailored to local needs. At Işın Daylight, we provide project-specific analyses and technical planning. We consider multiple variables such as road width, environmental conditions, and fixture type, and light distribution angle to determine the most efficient lighting pole height and spacing.
By doing so, we reduce energy consumption while ensuring a safe and visually pleasing urban lighting experience. Our expert team is committed to delivering smart, sustainable lighting solutions for modern cities.
Final Words
Street lighting is one of the invisible yet essential pillars of urban life. When placed at the right height and spacing, lighting poles don’t just illuminate roads—they enhance the overall quality of the city. These carefully calculated designs marry engineering with aesthetics to deliver energy efficiency and safe, comfortable living spaces.
Işın Daylight At Işın Daylight, we develop intelligent, sustainable solutions tailored to the unique needs of each project. We're here to shape the light of cities with precision. If you’re looking to plan your lighting project with an expert perspective get in touch with us! bize ulaşın!
