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Site Lighting

When do you need a site lighting approval?

If you want to add or change outdoor lighting (such as parking lot or building lights) on any property except a single-family home, you must obtain approval from the Town before installing the lights.

What types of site lighting are allowed for Hilton Head Island?

The Town has rules on the types of allowed lighting that

  • Match Hilton Head Island's character.
  • Ensure safety and appropriateness.
  • Does not bother neighbors or wildlife.

View Site Lighting Requirements - LMO Section 16-5-108

Site Lighting Approval Process

Step 1. Is your lighting part of a larger construction project?

If your lighting is included in a larger construction project, it will be reviewed alongside your Development Plan Review Application.

Step 2. Are you just changing the lights?

If it is only lighting (not part of a bigger project), it would be a Minor Corridor Review if the location of the project is along major or minor roads, along the water or marsh front, resort areas, or around Sea Pines Circle and Coligny Circle. 

Please reach out to the Town at cdic@hiltonheadislandsc.gov if you have questions about whether your location falls within the corridor.

Step 3. How the Town reviews your lighting

Pre-Approved Lights

If you use light fixtures that the Town has already approved, staff can quickly review and approve your plan.

A list of pre-approved light fixtures can be found in the Town of Hilton Head Island Design Guide.

Other Lights

If you wish to use different light options that are not on the approved list, your plan will be reviewed by the Design Review Board.

  • After discussing the project plans with you, Town staff will prepare a report with a recommendation for the Design Review Board.
  • The Design Review Board will make the final decision during a public meeting, where you will have the opportunity to attend and answer any questions the board members might have.
  • The Design Review Board will vote to either:
    • Approve the plan as submitted.
    • Approve the plan with the conditions that they provide during the meeting.
    • Deny the application.

Questions?

Contact the Community Development Information Center at cdic@hiltonheadislandsc.gov or 843-341-4757