The primary purpose of RP-37-15 is to provide guidance on lighting design for outdoor areas where people live, work, and pass through. It addresses the dual nature of exterior lighting:
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The standard outlines specific criteria for lighting design that differ from typical commercial outdoor practices due to the sensitive nature of airfield operations. IES RP-37-15 Outdoor Lighting for Airport Environments ies rp-37-15 pdf
If you are designing a complex site, you need both. However, for 95% of small to medium landscape projects (apartment complexes, office parks, residential subdivisions), provides sufficient design criteria.
RP-37-15 references specific requirements for financial transaction areas, The primary purpose of RP-37-15 is to provide
IES RP-37-15: Recommended Practice for Lighting Exterior Environments
Provides guidance for lighting in areas near the airport property to prevent light trespass that could distract air traffic controllers or pilots. Key Technical Recommendations IES RP-37-15 Outdoor Lighting for Airport Environments If
For these areas, the document provides tables defining minimum maintained illuminance, maximum uniformity ratios, and minimum vertical illuminance.
Note: As of mid-2025, the IES is working on a potential update (RP-37-20x). Always check the IES website to ensure you are buying the most current version.
While horizontal illuminance (light on the ground) helps you walk without tripping, vertical illuminance (light on vertical surfaces) is crucial for security.