Ibiza light rules aim to stop lamps lighting the sky

Ibiza, in the Balearic Islands, plans to stop outdoor lamps shining into the sky or onto places that need no light. The Ibiza Island Council unveiled the light rules on 14 October 2026 and will take them to its October meeting for final approval. They would apply to lighting at public and private buildings, limiting both the amount of light and the proportion of blue light.

Four levels of protection

The plan divides Ibiza, its coast and nearby smaller islands and islets into four lighting zones. Protected natural areas and places of astronomical interest would face the strictest rules. The council names the area around the Cala d’Hort Astronomical Observatory and ses Salines Natural Park among the places needing special protection.

Other zones cover rural land, built-up areas and urban areas with high levels of commercial, leisure or night-time traffic. The council says the aim is not to cut lighting everywhere, but to improve it and avoid light that serves no purpose.

Years to change the lights

If the rules take effect, operators would have up to four years to adapt their outdoor lighting. Certain public installations could have up to eight years. Existing facilities would have no more than three months to adjust when their lights switch on and off, while local councils would have to draw up plans for public lighting.

The proposal has been in development for years and drew 38 submissions during public consultation. Depending on the installation and the changes made, adapting outdoor lights could save between 50 and 60 per cent of the energy they use, according to estimates.

Topics: Environment · Politics

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com