Landscape & Outdoor Lighting in Venice
Bring the magic of evening in Venice to life with professionally designed and installed landscape and outdoor lighting. From the Venice Canals Historic District to the walk streets off Abbot Kinney and the breezy blocks along Ocean Front Walk, our low\u2011voltage LED systems highlight architecture, improve safety, and withstand coastal conditions. Shaffer Construction, Inc. is a licensed C\u201110 electrical contractor specializing in coastal\u2011grade lighting solutions that resist salt air, moisture, and wind. We handle everything—from design and transformer sizing to trenching, fixture placement, and programming smart timers—so your outdoor spaces look inviting and perform reliably, season after season.
Our Work



Benefits
Lighting Built for the Future
We design systems that look beautiful today and scale tomorrow. Our coastal-rated, UL 1838-listed transformers support multiple voltage taps to counteract voltage drop, and we specify LED fixtures with dimming, zoning, and scene control. Options include astronomical timers, photocells, Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi controllers, and integration with popular platforms like Lutron Caséta or smart hubs. From color temperatures (2200–3000K) to beam angles and lumen outputs, we fine-tune performance and preserve Venice’s relaxed nighttime vibe with dark-sky mindful settings.
Permits and Code Compliance
Shaffer Construction handles LADBS electrical permits, coordinates inspections, and builds to the City of Los Angeles Electrical Code (based on NEC/NFPA 70), Title 24 energy-efficient practices, and UL 1838 listing for landscape lighting components. We ensure WR-rated (weather resistant) and GFCI-protected exterior receptacles, proper burial depths per NEC 300.5, and correct transformer mounting in NEMA 3R/4X enclosures where appropriate. If Coastal Commission or HOA review is required, we prepare plans, respond to comments, and keep your project moving.
Craftsmanship and Reliability
Coastal conditions demand better materials. We favor solid brass or copper fixtures, marine‑grade 316 stainless fasteners, powder‑coated aluminum with thick marine-grade finishes, and UV-stable, direct-burial copper cable (12/2 or 10/2 as needed). All splices are waterproofed using gel-filled, heat-shrink or epoxy-sealed connectors. We set burial depths at a minimum 6 inches for low-voltage cable and use Schedule 40 PVC conduit for line-voltage feeds. Transformers get surge protection, drip loops, and clean labeling to simplify maintenance.
Custom Design and Planning
Every project starts with an on-site walk-through—daytime for layout and nighttime for a temporary mock-up if desired. We map circulation paths, identify hazards, note neighbor sightlines, and assess existing power. Then we draft a lighting plan: fixture types, beam spreads, Kelvin values, and transformer/circuit topology (hub or loop) to control voltage drop. We test different intensities to avoid glare across narrow walk streets and canals, ensuring soft, layered illumination that suits Venice’s easygoing, art-forward character.
What We Offer
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for landscape lighting at my Venice home?+
If your project adds a new exterior circuit, hardwired transformer, or timer, an LADBS electrical permit is typically required. Like-for-like fixture replacements often don’t need permits. Properties along the beach or canals may require additional Coastal Zone review. We confirm requirements during the assessment, file any necessary permits, and meet the inspector so the project stays compliant and hassle-free.
How do you prevent corrosion and failures near the beach and canals?+
We specify coastal-rated materials: solid brass or copper fixtures, 316 stainless hardware, powder-coated aluminum with marine finishes, and UL 1838-listed transformers in NEMA 3R/4X enclosures where warranted. All splices are sealed with gel-filled, heat-shrink or epoxy connectors. We add surge protection, create drip loops, and use UV-stable, direct-burial copper cable at proper depths. This combination dramatically improves longevity in Venice’s salty, foggy air.
My older cottage has a small panel—can I still add outdoor lighting?+
Most landscape lighting is low voltage and energy efficient, so loads are modest. We evaluate your panel capacity during the consultation. Often, a dedicated 15–20A exterior GFCI circuit for the transformer is sufficient. If space is tight, we can propose a small subpanel or other code-compliant solutions. We present options and pricing before any work begins.
Can the system be smart—timers, dimming, and scenes from my phone?+
Yes. We offer astronomical timers, photocells, and Bluetooth/Wi‑Fi controllers that let you schedule on/off around sunset, dim individual zones, and create scenes for dining or entertaining. We can integrate with popular smart-home platforms (e.g., Lutron Caséta) and set neighbor-friendly curfews so lights gently power down overnight.
How long will installation take, and will you damage my landscaping?+
Typical Venice installations take 2–5 days depending on trench length and fixture count. We hand-trench where feasible, route along plant borders, and restore soil and mulch carefully—especially in sandy soils common near the beach. For mature plantings and hardscape, we coordinate with your landscaper to minimize disruption and achieve a clean finish.
What color temperature and brightness work best for Venice homes?+
Warm white (2700K–3000K) complements stucco, cedar, and concrete while preserving a relaxed coastal feel. We aim for soft, layered illumination: 150–300 lumens for path lights, adjustable output for trees, and low-glare grazing on façades. During night aiming, we fine-tune levels to avoid spill onto neighbors and keep the ambiance mellow.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for a free consultation and quote on your electrical project!
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