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Garden lighting

SELV, IP ratings, colour temperature, and how not to dazzle the neighbours.

All guides
Stub — growing
Last reviewed
3 sources
Regulations
  • Fixed garden lighting wiring is notifiable work in some circumstances under Part P — particularly anything wired off the mains in a special location. [1]
  • All outdoor electrical installations must comply with BS 7671, including correct RCD protection and IP-rated fittings. [2]
  • Light spill that disturbs neighbours can be a statutory nuisance under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005. [3]
Hints & tips
  • Before trenching any garden lighting cable — CAT & Genny sweep along the run (HSE HSG47). Spike-light supply trenches are shallow and cross everything. Full method in the Safety guide.
  • Use SELV 12 V for spike, deck and step lights — safer in wet ground and homeowner-installable.
  • Aim for 2700–3000 K (warm white) outdoors. Anything cooler reads as 'car park'.
  • IP65 minimum for exposed fittings; IP67 for in-ground uplighters and pond lights.
  • Position lights to graze textures (walls, bark) rather than point upward into eyes or windows.

This app provides general UK guidance and material estimates only. It is not legal, planning, engineering or building-control advice. Always confirm requirements with your local planning authority, building control, utility providers, manufacturers or qualified professionals.