What does the KBVB say about lighting on soccer fields?
If you are constructing or renovating a soccer field, a few bright lights are no longer enough. The KBVB imposes clear rules for lighting of a soccer field, per league division and type of match. Not only must the field be lit strongly enough (in lux), the even distribution of light over the entire playing field is mandatory.
During an official inspection, the KBVB accurately measures whether the lighting of your soccer field meets the standard. Is there too much difference between the brightest and darkest areas? Then you risk having the field rejected for official matches or cup games.
These rules apply to all clubs - from youth and recreational to provincial and national series.
Many clubs underestimate this until it is too late.
Want to make sure the lighting on your soccer field is in working order? Then be sure to read on.
Overview of KBVB lighting standards by department (average lux value)
Each level of Belgian soccer - from youth to national - has its own rules when it comes to grounds lighting. The KBVB determines for each division how much light (lux) is minimally needed, and how evenly distributed it must be over the entire field. These standards are not without obligation: they determine whether a match can go ahead, whether a club can be promoted, and whether a field is approved during an inspection.
Below is a clear overview of the required light levels for each competition. Note: don't underestimate the details. Even a perfectly lit midfield is not enough if the corners remain too dark. The KBVB carefully measures whether the entire field meets the requirements - and that can make the difference between a playing ban or a smooth license application.
At an inspection, the league sends a licensed inspector who comes to measure the field with a special lux meter. The brightness is measured at 88 fixed points (8 rows of 11 points), spread over the entire field of play. Each zone must meet the standard: not only the center, but also the corners, flanks and goal area.
| Department | Average luminous intensity | Comments |
|---|---|---|
|
Professional clubs 1A (from 3rd season) |
1200 lux |
Required for license |
|
Professional clubs 1A & 1B (initial) |
800 lux |
First teams |
|
Super League women |
300 lux |
|
|
Promises/reserves professional clubs |
200 lux |
|
|
1st national amateur (VV/ACFF) |
300 lux (200 lux transition) |
From 2nd season mandatory |
|
2nd Division VV |
200 lux (130 lux transition) |
|
|
3rd Division VV |
130 lux (80 lux transition) |
|
|
Provincial & recreational clubs |
80 lux |
|
🔎 Important: At least 75% of the prescribed average brightness must be achieved at each point of the field.
Special rules for Cup of Belgium
Additional conditions apply to cup matches:
Clubs from lower series receiving a club from 1st division or pro level must respect the higher lux standards.
If this is not feasible, the match must be played during the day or at another venue.
From the 1/16th finals against professional clubs, the lighting must be at least 300 lux on average amounts.
In addition, the stadium must have a capacity of 1,500 spectators, including at least 300 seats.
How often should lighting be inspected?
The KBVB claims:
A triennial inspection of grounds lighting
Re-inspection if the site is not compliant
At 60 lux illumination, the inspection is conducted at the initiative of the union
🧾 Non-compliant lighting may result in penalties or bans on evening games.
EcoBeam - Your partner for lighting soccer club KBVB
At EcoBeam we offer a total solution for soccer clubs in Flanders and Wallonia:
✅ Lighting study and custom plan
✅ Supply of high-performance LED luminaires
✅ Installation of light poles.
✅ Adjustment according to KBVB standards.
✅ Smart control (SmartFly, DALI, Loxone, time zones)
Our solutions are energy efficient, low maintenance and perfectly scalable when promoted to higher departments.
Request a free lighting study for your site?
Do you, as a soccer club, wish to be sure that you meet the lighting requirements of the KBVB?
Get in touch with our team and receive a customized, no-obligation lighting study.
📞 Call us: 03/366.65.56
📧 Email us: info@ecobeam.be
🌍 Visit: https://www.ecobeam.be
