There are two different methods of having street lighting installed where none exists:
1. The property owner can request a utilitarian streetlight. An installation of this type is a light installed on an existing wooden power pole and is financed by the Department of Water and Power. This lighting is intended to be only for minimal traffic safety. Utilitarian lighting can only be installed at locations that meet certain criteria. For further information please call the Department of Water and Power at (800) 342-5397.
2. A property owner can petition the city to initiate an assessment project to install lighting on the street adjacent to their property. This type of installation is for a complete, lighting system on the street. Property owners are responsible for their share of the costs of installation and annual maintenance.
The current cost per 50-foot wide lot for a modern lighting system on most residential streets is about $3,400. The annual maintenance assessment for a modern lighting system is about $70/year for a 50-foot wide lot.
The current cost per 50-foot wide lot for an ornamental lighting system on most residential streets is about $7,500. The annual maintenance assessment for an ornamental lighting system is about $90/year for a 50-foot wide lot.
If you wish to discuss any of these two alternatives and their requirements please contact James Quigley at (213) 847-1459 or e-mail him at james.quigley@lacity.org
New assessments require a vote of the property owners in compliance with Proposition 218, now part of the California Constitution.
Petitions and applications for the installation of new street lighting are available from this site.
Additional Information: