Dark Sky Grant Program

The Village of Westmont in Illinois has launched the Dark Sky Grant Program as part of its broader environmental stewardship and quality-of-life efforts. Managed by the Westmont Environmental Improvement Committee (EIC), this grant initiative reflects the Village’s commitment to promoting responsible lighting practices that reduce light pollution, protect circadian rhythms in humans and wildlife, and enhance nighttime visibility and aesthetics. Through this program, the Village seeks to engage local residents and businesses in meaningful actions that contribute to the preservation of the night sky while also offering measurable energy and cost savings. This grant opportunity specifically supports home and property improvement projects that align with the principles of the Dark Sky initiative. These principles emphasize the use of lighting fixtures and technologies that are appropriately shielded, emit lower color temperatures, and operate at optimal brightness levels to avoid unnecessary light spillage and glare. Applicants are encouraged to incorporate energy-efficient solutions such as LED lighting with wattage between 5W and 9W (or 40W-60W incandescent equivalents), shielded fixtures directing light downward, and warm-color temperature bulbs rated at 3000K or less. Additional strategies that are highly encouraged include motion sensors, dimmers, and timers, which further minimize unnecessary nighttime light use. To be eligible, applicants must be residents or businesses located within the geographic boundaries of the Village of Westmont. Only one grant per calendar year is permitted per physical address, and the grant cannot be used retroactively for projects completed before January 1, 2026. All projects must begin after January 1, 2026 and be completed by November 1, 2026. Moreover, applicants who have previously received grant funding for the same project at a given address are ineligible for this funding round. The application process is fully digital, requiring submission via an online application form. Applicants must answer a set of questions about their understanding of the Dark Sky initiative, actions previously taken to support it, and specific planned improvements. A detailed itemization of proposed purchases related to the Dark Sky project is also required. Once submitted, applications will be reviewed by the EIC and Village staff to verify eligibility and compliance with program criteria. Applicants will be notified of their approval status. Approved applicants must complete their projects by the stated deadline, submit proof of purchase, and provide a photo of the completed work to be eligible for reimbursement. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis and subject to available funding. Each qualifying project may receive a reimbursement of up to $500. Reimbursements will be distributed only after all required documentation has been received and verified. Projects are also subject to potential in-person inspection by Village staff to confirm compliance. For further inquiries, applicants are advised to contact the EIC’s staff liaison, Larry McIntyre, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 630-981-6245. The grant program opened in January 2026 and will remain active until November 1, 2026, or until allocated funds are exhausted, whichever occurs first. Interested applicants are encouraged to act quickly due to the limited nature of the funding pool.

Ensure light fixtures meet criteria for brightness, shielding, and color temperature (≤3000K). Avoid overlighting and blue-toned lights.