Street Lighting

What is the purpose of street lights?

Poor visibility is a significant cause of accidents at night. Street lights assist drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists by illuminating areas adjoining the roadway. They help alert drivers of possible hazards and illuminate walkways for pedestrians. Although streetlights provide some security in residential areas, they are not installed for security reasons alone.

How to tell if a light isn't working?

• The light is out. The lamp, photo control or fixture itself has failed.
• Light goes on and off. This cycling means it's at the end of its life.
• The light stays on during the day. The photo control has failed in the on position.

How can I report a streetlight outage?

​If you know the location of the light outage, we need your help identifying the "Light ID". The best way to do this would be using our “Street Light Map Database Tool” (Step 1). Scroll through the map to find its location, click on the 'coloured button' and take note of the "Light ID"

Then let us know by putting the information into our Street Lighting Outage Report (Step 2).

Step 1: Street Light Map Database Tool

Step 2: Street Lighting Outage Report

How long does it take for a street light outage to be repaired?

During winter, street light outage reporting numbers increase due to the extended periods without sunlight. The Town's contractor will try to attend to a reported streetlight as soon as possible. They attempt to visit and service street lights within 21 days of reporting. This timeline needs to consider other factors, such as the availability of parts and other challenges, like weather conditions.

LED light manufacturers sometimes discontinue some of our lights in favour of improved options. When this happens, the Town sources alternatives compatible with the existing fixtures. The Town makes every effort to keep an adequate supply of fixtures in stock. Still, there are some circumstances beyond our control.

Who handles Street Lights not maintained by the Town of Fort Erie?

The Town generally maintains all lights illuminating the roadway. There are two common exceptions to this rule. Lights found with ‘yellow buttons' in our map () are the responsibility of the Niagara Region and lights found with ‘light-blue buttons' () are Private lights that are normally serviced by Canadian Niagara Power (CNP).

How do I request a new streetlight?

Please refer to the Town's Street Lighting Policy for information on when and how requests are granted.