5* Rating on Google

Open: Mon - Fri: 7:00am - 4:00pm

Call us: 01509 266355
5* Rating on Google

Open: Mon - Fri: 7:00am - 4:00pm

Call us: 01509 266355

Football Pitch Floodlights Cost and Design Guide

When it comes to managing or building a football pitch, the cost of football pitch lighting is crucial. From saving money to improving player performance and safety, flood lighting can considerably reduce the chance of accidents and improve spectatorship. This article will break down the costs of football pitch floodlighting and the factors that can impact this cost. Here at INUI, we work with you to create a customised lighting solution that suits your pitch and your budget.

What is the cost of football pitch floodlights?

The cost of football pitch floodlights varies depending on the pitch size, lighting type, and level of play. Below is a general estimate based on UK installations:

  • Full-size 11-a-side pitch - £35,000 – £75,000+

  • 5-a-side or training pitch - £10,000 – £25,000

  • LED retrofit for existing poles - £15,000 – £40,000

Football Pitch Floodlights Cost factors include:

  • Type and quantity of luminaires

  • Height and number of lighting columns

  • Type of control systems (manual or automated)

  • Groundworks and cabling

  • Labour and installation

  • Planning permission or regulatory compliance

At INUI, we recommend LED systems for their energy efficiency, durability, and reduced maintenance costs over time. Not only do they enhance performance and spectatorship but they are incredibly efficient and will save you money in the long run.

Key design considerations for football pitch lighting

Designing a lighting system for sports pitches involves more than achieving brightness. The goal is to meet the specific standards for different levels of play while ensuring safety, comfort, and compliance.

Lux Levels and lighting standards

When it comes to designing lighting for your football pitch, the lux level will depend on the class of use and whether you have an indoor or outdoor football pitch. For Class 1 which is international level, both indoor and outdoor pitches require  750 lux and a uniformity ratio of 0.7 and a vertical illumination of 60 lux with a ratio of less than 30.

For Class 2 play, which is regional level, the recommended horizontal illuminance is 500 lux with 0.6 uniformity, and vertical illuminance remains at 60 lux, also with a ratio of less than 30. 

Finally, for Class 3, which is club level, or training use, the horizontal illuminance drops to 200 lux with a 0.5 uniformity ratio, and vertical illuminance is 20 lux, again with a ratio of less than 30. These standards ensure consistent visibility and safety for players and officials across all levels of competition.

Pole height and positioning

Lighting poles are typically mounted between 12 and 18 metres high, depending on pitch size. The number and positioning of poles are designed to provide full coverage while minimising shadows and glare. Poor placement can result in uneven lighting or excessive spill light into nearby areas which can cause waste and light pollution.

Glare control and light pollution

Using precision optics and beam-controlled LED luminaires helps to reduce glare for players, officials, and spectators. INUI’s systems are also engineered to limit light spill beyond the pitch boundaries, ensuring compliance with local planning regulations and minimising disruption to neighbouring properties.

Energy efficiency and controls

One of the best features of using LED floodlights for your football pitch is the energy efficiency benefit. LEDs use much less energy than alternative lighting methods such as halogen or metal halide which is not only better for the environment but also helps to save you money. Plus they also come with a range of smart controls such as dimming features, motion sensors and remote access which allows you to optimise your energy usage even further.

Installation and planning support from INUI

Our professional team of lighting experts at INUI provide comprehensive support for football pitch floodlight projects, including:

  • Custom lighting designs tailored to pitch size and usage

  • Photometric lighting simulations and compliance documentation

  • Planning application assistance

  • Professional installation and commissioning

  • Ongoing maintenance and support options

Our team of lighting experts can design a solution for your sports pitch and 3g pitches. We are flexible and can create solutions for various sizes and uses, from professional-level pitches to pitches in schools and public spaces.

We’ll look at the size, location and activities played on the pitch to present a unique solution that meets industry standards. Contact our team today for a tailored quote on football pitch flood lighting costs or to speak with one of our lighting specialists about your football pitch project.