Request Streetlight or LED Upgrade - Fort Collins

Utilities and Infrastructure Colorado 3 Minutes Read · published February 20, 2026 Flag of Colorado

In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents and businesses can request a new streetlight or ask for an LED upgrade to improve safety and visibility on public roadways. Requests are evaluated by city staff for location, ownership, cost, and engineering feasibility. This guide explains who reviews requests, what to expect during evaluation, common outcomes, and how to report outages or unsafe lighting. It also summarizes enforcement topics related to unauthorized work on streetlight infrastructure and where to find official rules and contacts.

How requests are handled

Requests typically begin with a service request or inquiry to the city department responsible for street lighting. The city evaluates: ownership of the pole or fixture, public safety needs, spacing and illumination standards, and budgetary or maintenance implications. Costs for installation or ongoing maintenance depend on ownership and funding policy; specific fee schedules are not specified on the cited page[1].

The city assesses safety and ownership before approving installations.

Penalties & Enforcement

Fort Collins enforces rules against unauthorized alteration, installation, or tampering with public streetlight infrastructure. Where the municipal code or related enforcement provisions apply, the code is the controlling instrument for penalties and procedures[1]. Specific monetary fines and fee schedules for streetlight violations are not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code linked below for any applicable sections.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, cease-and-desist requirements, restoration orders, and court actions may be authorized under city code where applicable; details are not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Enforcer and complaints: Traffic Operations, Public Works, or Utilities typically handle inspection and enforcement; report problems or request review via the city utilities contact page[2].
  • Appeals and review: specific administrative appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; check the municipal code or contact the enforcing department for appeal procedures[1].
Do not alter or attach equipment to streetlight poles without prior city authorization.

Applications & Forms

The city does not publish a single standardized public form for “new streetlight requests” on the cited municipal page; many requests begin with a service request or by contacting Utilities or Public Works for evaluation. Where special permits, easements, or third-party agreements are required, the city will indicate the specific forms and submittal instructions during review[2].

Action steps

  • Submit an initial service request or inquiry to Fort Collins Utilities or Public Works to start the review.
  • Provide exact location, address, pole number (if known), and reason for the request (safety, visibility, crime prevention).
  • Allow engineering staff to evaluate ownership and feasibility; the city will advise on next steps, costs, and timelines.
  • If a fee or third-party agreement is required, follow city instructions to obtain estimates and execute agreements.
Expect an engineering review before any installation proceeds.

FAQ

Who owns streetlights in Fort Collins?
Ownership varies by location; poles and fixtures may be owned by the City of Fort Collins, a utility company, or a private owner. The city evaluates ownership during a request.
How do I report an outage or request a new light?
Report outages or submit a request by contacting Fort Collins Utilities or Public Works as the city directs; use the utilities contact pathway for the fastest response[2].
Are there fees for installing a new streetlight?
Fees depend on ownership and funding policy; specific fee schedules are not specified on the cited page[1].

How-To

  1. Gather location details: address, nearest intersection, and pole number if visible.
  2. Contact Fort Collins Utilities/Public Works to submit a service request or inquiry.
  3. Provide justification (safety, visibility) and any photos that show the need.
  4. Wait for an engineering assessment; respond to requests for additional information.
  5. If approved, follow city instructions for agreements, permits, or payments.

Key Takeaways

  • Requests are reviewed for ownership, safety, and feasibility before approval.
  • Start with a service request to Fort Collins Utilities or Public Works.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Fort Collins Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Fort Collins Utilities - Contact / Services

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