Stables and greenhouses

In our open landscape we have many stables and some greenhouses. When these are lit, it can be seen from far away. Increasingly, we also see open stables. This increases the chance of light nuisance and light pollution. Even if a stable or greenhouse is not located in an open area, but next to a forest or nature reserve, light pollution can occur. Not only for us as humans, but certainly also for flora and fauna.

Illuminated barn in outdoor area.
Photo: Barn in Bredevoort seen from a very far distance in the late evening. Lights in the stable are visible from far away in the otherwise open and dark landscape.

Laws and regulations

The Buitengebied zoning plan states that sheds and greenhouses are only allowed on agricultural land and must be appropriate to the landscape. What is allowed with regard to lighting is looked at per situation. The municipality must always be contacted.

The Activities Decree (Article 3.56(1)) contains the rules for lighting greenhouses: greenhouses must have a light screen installation at the top that can reduce light emission by at least 98%. If the entrepreneur only has lights on during the day, he does not have to have a light screen. A light screen installation can consist of a screen cloth, or it can consist of several components or several screen cloths. The business owner must demonstrate the 98% reduction of light to the outside.

The entrepreneur must shield the side walls of a greenhouse from light emission from sunset to sunrise. This must be done in a way that reduces light emission at a distance of 10 meters by at least 95%. Also, the lights must not be visible outside the establishment (Section 3.59 Activities Decree).

This is how we do it from now on

  • The owner of a greenhouse or barn should always contact the municipality. The municipality considers what is allowed for each situation.
  • There should be no unnecessary light pollution to nearby residents and/or wildlife.
  • In case of light nuisance, we engage in discussions with the owners to prevent or reduce this light nuisance.
  • Shielding of light in stables and greenhouses must follow the rules of the Activities Decree.
  • We are sparing of flora and fauna, but also want to provide space for economic development. For example, with open stables.