Shelton, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 8 § 8-140
Adequate light
Operative Text
Every commercial structure, commercial unit, public hall or stairway, shall be adequately lighted when open to the public so as to provide at least six (6) footcandles of light at the tread or floor level.
Section 8-140 of the Shelton Code of Ordinances establishes a minimum lighting standard for commercial buildings and shared spaces: any commercial structure, unit, public hall, or stairway must provide at least six footcandles of illumination at floor or tread level whenever the space is open to the public. A footcandle is a standard unit of light intensity, and the six-footcandle threshold is the baseline the code treats as 'adequate.' This rule applies to the areas where people walk and move, not just to overhead fixtures in general.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Shelton Code ch. 8, art. VI § 8-140, operators of commercial properties are generally expected to maintain lighting systems that deliver a measured minimum of six footcandles at floor and tread level in all public-facing areas whenever those spaces are accessible to visitors or customers. Compliant operators typically conduct periodic light-level checks using a light meter, replace failing bulbs or fixtures promptly, and document maintenance activity. Stairways and hallways are specifically covered, so those areas warrant the same attention as main commercial floors.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 8-140 of the Shelton Code of Ordinances gives occupants and visitors of commercial spaces a baseline expectation of at least six footcandles of light at floor level in public halls, stairways, and commercial units. If lighting in a commercial space appears to fall below a safe or functional level, individuals may consider reporting the condition to the relevant Shelton municipal code enforcement or building inspection office. Tenant-rights organizations and local housing or building authorities can provide general information about how complaints under provisions like § 8-140 are typically processed.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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