What is in the guide
- Lux and uniformity in plain English, and the FA 88 point grid
- FA ground grading requirements
- 3G pitches and training areas
- Planning permission
- Design: columns, light spill and glare
- Funding and the Football Foundation
- Project timeline
- Maintenance and testing
- Polaris football projects
- Checklist
FA floodlighting requirements at a glance
From The FA National Ground Grading guidance (men's football), section 1.11. All new installations and upgrades must be LED floodlights.
| FA grade | Average lux (existing) | New or improved installations |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 (Step 1) | at least 250, no reading below 100 | Certificate no more than 6 months old for a higher grading |
| Grade 2 (Step 2) | at least 180, no reading below 100 | BS EN 12193 Class 2, at least 200 lux, able to rise to 250 |
| Grades 3 to 6 | at least 120 | Not stated for these grades |
| Grade 7 | Not stated | BS EN 12193 Class 2, at least 200 lux |
| Grade 8 | Not compulsory; if fitted, at least 120 | Not stated |
See our sports lighting and 5-a-side pitch lighting pages and our projects. Polaris Light produces lux plots and light spill drawings, handles the planning application, and supplies and installs. Every Polaris product carries a 5-year warranty.
Frequently asked questions
What is in the football floodlighting guide?
A 12 page PDF on lux and uniformity, the FA ground grading floodlighting requirements for Grades 1 to 8, 3G and training pitches, planning permission, design, Football Foundation funding criteria, the project timeline and maintenance and testing.
How many lux does a football pitch need?
It depends on the grade and use. The FA ground grading guidance asks for an average of at least 250 lux at Grade 1, 180 lux at Grade 2 and 120 lux at Grades 3 to 6. On a 3G pitch, The FA asks for more than 200 lux for full size matches and more than 120 lux for training.
Do football floodlights need planning permission?
In most cases, yes. Floodlights count as development, and planners usually ask for a light spill drawing and the proposed hours of use. Polaris Light produces lux plots and light spill drawings and handles the planning application.
Is the guide free?
Yes. Fill in the short form and you can download the PDF straight away.