A Compliance Checklist for Complying with the Building Performance Ordinance Lighting Upgrade Requirement

Confirm the Deadline

Buildings are subject to an upcoming lighting upgrade deadline based on their square footage, as shown in the timeline on the Building Performance Ordinance website. If a building is high-performing, it may be exempt from the lighting requirement. See the Exemption Reference Guide for more information on exemptions.

Understand Scope of Requirement

Buildings must meet the minimum lighting code requirements identified below.

  1. Replace or upgrade exterior lighting fixtures as necessary to meet lighting power allowances for exterior lighting established in the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC); 1
  2. Replace or upgrade any interior lighting fixtures as necessary to meet lighting power allowances for interior lighting established in the 2017 City of Boulder Energy Conservation Code (COBECC);
  3. Comply with requirements for automatic time switch control devices, occupancy sensors, and exterior lighting controls as necessary to meet the 2017 COBECC.

Conduct an Initial Lighting Evaluation

To determine if the existing building lighting meets the required code, the building owner should complete a whole-building lighting evaluation with a lighting professional. If all or some of the lighting is identified as non-compliant, the lighting professional should provide a scope of work for upgrading the lighting to compliant.

Upgrade Necessary Lighting

For any lighting not already in compliance with the ordinance requirements, implement upgrades to ensure all requirements meet the relevant code. The building owner can select any lighting professional to complete this work. If upgrades are necessary, the provider must go through the permitting process as usual.

Get an ordinance-specific checklist for electrical permits, the Electrical Permit Checklist for Building Performance Ordinance can be found on that site

Apply for Rebates

Don’t forget, rebates may be available for lighting upgrades. Connect with a PACE Business Sustainability Advisor at Boulder County to identify applicable rebates. Call 303-786-7223 or email info@PACEpartners.com

Report Ordinance Compliance to the City

Report compliance with the Ordinance lighting requirement by submitting documentation that verifies compliance with all applicable code sections to the City of Boulder online.

This documentation may include a COMcheckTM PASS certificate OR an Interior Lighting Compliance Form.

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