Outdoor Lighting Installation in Wisconsin: Complete 2026 Cost Guide
Planning outdoor lighting for your Wisconsin home? This guide covers installation costs, code requirements, and what separates a safe installation from a fire hazard.
Quick Cost Summary
- • Low-voltage landscape system: $1,500-$4,000
- • Security light (per fixture): $150-$400
- • Deck/patio lighting: $800-$2,500
- • Path lights (per light): $75-$200
Types of Outdoor Lighting
Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting (12V)
Low-voltage systems use a transformer to step down household current to 12 volts. They're safer, more energy-efficient, and don't require permits in Wisconsin. However, proper transformer sizing and wire gauge selection are critical for performance.
Line-Voltage Outdoor Lighting (120V)
Standard 120V outdoor fixtures provide brighter light and are required for larger security lights and some architectural lighting. These require permits, GFCI protection, and must use wet-rated fixtures and wiring methods.
Wisconsin Code Requirements
NEC 2020 Requirements for Outdoor Lighting:
- GFCI protection required for all outdoor outlets and lighting circuits
- Fixtures must be rated for wet or damp locations
- Underground UF cable: minimum 18" burial depth
- Conduit in exposed locations for physical protection
Why We Can't Quote Outdoor Lighting Remotely
Outdoor lighting quotes require a site visit because we need to assess:
- • Distance from panel to fixture locations
- • Soil conditions for trenching/burial
- • Existing circuit capacity
- • Tree roots, utilities, and obstacles
- • Transformer location for low-voltage systems
A photo can't show what's underground or how far wire needs to run.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using indoor fixtures outdoors - They'll fail within a year and create shock hazards
- Undersizing transformers - Leads to dim lights and premature failure
- Shallow burial depth - Lawn equipment can damage wiring
- Skipping GFCI protection - Code violation and safety hazard
Related Resources
Ready to Light Up Your Property?
Schedule a free site assessment. We'll evaluate your property, discuss your vision, and provide a detailed quote with no obligation.
Schedule Site AssessmentReady to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
Professional outdoor lighting installation enhances curb appeal, improves security, and extends your living space into the evening hours. Couillard Electric serves Sheboygan County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and surrounding SE Wisconsin communities.