Dark Sky Friendly Business Certification

WHAT IS IT?

A public recognition program supporting businesses that adopt lighting practices that reduce light pollution and protect dark skies.  Your business does not need to be in a certified dark sky location, it just needs to follow dark sky best practices.

WHY IS IT?

Light pollution has negative effects on human and environmental health, public safety, Minnesota’s natural environment, and the built environment.  

WHAT’S IN IT FOR MY BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY?

  1. Distinguishes your business as a responsible member of the community, thereby attracting customers and building loyalty.

  2. Encourages dark sky tourism that generates higher local spending and creates jobs

  3. Reduces electrical usage and expense

HOW DOES MY BUSINESS QUALIFY?

  1. Have no indoor or outdoor lighting that allows light to escape above the horizon to cause light pollution.

  2. Have no indoor or outdoor lighting that creates light trespass or glare at your property line.

  3. Have no outdoor lighting fixture that emits light with a color temperature above 2,700 Kelvin. (2700 Kelvin = a warm, golden color)

HOW DO I START?

Email info@starryskiesnorth.org and request educational materials or an application

IF MY BUSINESS QUALIFIES, WHAT DO I GET?

  1. A framed Certificate of Merit appropriate for display inside your business

  2. A window cling to announce to customers your certification as a Dark Sky Friendly business.

  3. Press Releases to area media outlets regarding certification

  4. Listing on the Starry Skies North website as a Dark Sky Friendly Business

  5. The right to use the Dark Sky Friendly Business logo in your business advertising and communications

WHAT ELSE DO I HAVE TO DO?

By accepting the Certificate of Merit, your business or organization agrees to the following:

  1. Any future outdoor lighting installed or activated on your premises will be Dark Sky Friendly.

  2. Your business agrees to practice responsible outdoor lighting management.

  3. Agree to periodic recertification by Starry Skies North

For More Information: info@starryskiesnorth.org, www.starryskiesnorth.org