Getting the right LED light pole isn’t just picking a height. It’s a balance of wind load (EPA), mounting, foundation, optics, and accessories. Below are the most common sizing mistakes we see—and how to avoid them with help from LFD Lighting.
Picking a pole that’s too short or too tall
What happens: Dark spots, glare, or light spilling into neighbors’ yards.
Easy fix: Start with these quick ranges, then fine‑tune with a simple layout.
- Driveways/walkways: 12–16 ft
- Small/medium parking lots and campuses: 20–25 ft
- Large parking lots/roadways/sports courts: 25–35+ ft
Forgetting the wind (a.k.a. EPA)
- What happens: Big fixtures, arms, and banners catch wind. A light pole that’s not rated for your area can shake—or fail.
- Easy fix: Choose a pole rated for your wind zone and include everything on the pole (fixtures, bullhorns, cameras). Need mounts or adapters?
See LFD Lighting’s light pole accessories
Mount mismatch: the fixture doesn’t fit the pole
- What happens: You order a slip‑fitter fixture but the pole top is flat… or the tenon size doesn’t match.
- Easy fix: Check the mount type before you buy. Most slip‑fitters need a 2-3/8 in (60 mm) round tenon. If yours doesn’t match, add a tenon adapter or top reducer.
Find adapters, bullhorns, and brackets here
Skipping the base and anchor bolt details
- What happens: The base plate doesn’t match the bolt circle, or the pole wobbles after install.
- Easy fix: Confirm bolt circle, bolt diameter, and anchor bolt template before pouring concrete.
LFD Lighting offers bolt templates, base covers, and shims
Quick sizing tips
- Think “area and height” first, not watts.
- Choose the right optic (Type II/III/IV/V) to spread light evenly.
- Match the pole top and mount: tenon size, slip‑fitter, or arm.
- Check the base: bolt circle, anchor bolts, and grounding.
- Consider environment: coastal, snowy, high‑wind zones.
- Allow for future add‑ons (extra heads, cameras, banners).
Why choose LFD Lighting
- Simple, friendly guidance: send us your lot size —we’ll recommend pole height, mounting arms, and the right accessories.
- Faster installs: we bundle poles, mounts, and hardware so everything fits.
- Better results: even lighting, less glare, and gear that stands up to weather.