When shopping for lighting, you might notice different types of compliance listed on the packaging. You might guess that ADA Compliant, Energy Star, and Dark Sky all refer to good things, but what, exactly, do they mean? Are all of these different compliant standards something that the average homeowner should be worried about? The short answer is, it depends.

ADA refers to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which includes regulations pertaining to wall and ceiling light fixtures in public places. Private residences aren't required to comply. For commercial zoning, the restrictions state that wall fixtures need to be mounted between 28 and 80 inches above the floor and shouldn't extend more than four inches away from the wall. Ceiling fixtures must hang at least 80 inches above the floor.

Energy Star is the label developed by the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy to denote compliance with governmental standards for energy efficiency. Besides the fact that more and more state and local laws are requiring newly-constructed homes to comply with these standards, you will probably want to look for the Energy Star label for more personal and practical reasons: it will help you save money on your energy bills, and will also help to reduce your carbon footprint by consuming less energy. Energy Star-labeled lighting products are also rigorously tested to meet national fire safety standards, all of which makes them a good choice, regardless of whether they are required by law.

Dark Sky Regulated, also known as Good Neighbor Lighting, is a term referring to lighting fixtures that are designed to cut down on glare, prevent bright lights from shining in your neighbor's window, and reduce the phenomenon known as “urban sky glow”. It applies to outdoor lighting, and, like with Energy Star compliance, whether it's a legal requirement depends on where you live, so check your local zoning laws to be sure. But, also like Energy Star, Dark Sky Regulated products are generally desirable whether they're required or not. For one thing, they also help cut down on energy waste; and, like good fences, they help make good neighbors.