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Do You Need an Electrician to Install Landscape Lighting?

Modern backyard with low voltage landscape lighting illuminating walkway and garden.

Shedding Light on the Big Question

Picture this: you’ve been dreaming about a backyard that feels warm, inviting, and safe at night. You’ve pinned photos, you’ve got a vision in your head… but then the question hits you. Do you actually need to hire an electrician to make it happen, or can you get it done another way?

If you’re in the Minneapolis metro area and thinking about adding landscape lighting, you’re not alone in asking this. The short answer? It depends on your setup, your comfort level with electrical work, and how you want the final result to look and function. This guide will walk you through when an electrician is necessary, when you can skip it, and the smartest way to get a safe, professional-looking result without headaches.

What We’ll Cover

  1. When an Electrician is Required for Landscape Lighting
  2. Low Voltage vs. Line Voltage: Why it Matters
  3. The Benefits of Professional Installation
  4. How DIY-Friendly Systems Work
  5. Choosing the Best Option for Your Home
  6. FAQs
  7. Wrapping It Up: The Smart Path Forward

When an Electrician is Required for Landscape Lighting

Let’s answer the core question first. Not all landscape lighting jobs need an electrician, but there are times when you absolutely should have one.

Licensed electrician connecting wiring for outdoor landscape lights.

You will likely need an electrician if:

  1. You are installing line voltage (120V) outdoor lighting.
  2. You need a new outdoor power source or additional wiring from your home’s main electrical panel.
  3. Your design requires underground conduit for safety and code compliance.
  4. You’re dealing with older electrical systems or questionable wiring that needs updating.

Electrical codes are in place for a reason. High-voltage systems carry real risks if installed incorrectly, including fire hazards and shocks. An electrician ensures it’s safe, legal, and up to code.

Low Voltage vs. Line Voltage: Why it Matters

Here’s the thing: most residential landscape lighting today uses low voltage (12V) systems. That means a transformer steps down your home’s standard voltage to a much safer level.

  1. Safe to handle during installation.
  2. No electrical license required for setup in most areas.
  3. Easy to adjust or expand later.
  4. Energy efficient, especially with LED fixtures.

Line voltage lighting benefits:

  1. Can handle very bright fixtures or commercial-grade setups.
  2. Works well for large properties or extensive security lighting.
  3. More permanent infrastructure.

Most homeowners choose low voltage because it offers plenty of brightness for beauty and security without the complexity or cost of high-voltage electrical work.

Low voltage LED garden lights along a landscaped path at dusk.

The Benefits of Professional Installation

Even if you don’t need a licensed electrician, hiring a professional outdoor lighting company can make a huge difference in the final result.

At Lit Outdoor Lighting Company, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners design and install lighting systems that look incredible on day one and stay that way for years.

Professional outdoor lighting installer placing LED path lights in a landscaped yard.

Benefits include:

  1. Custom design tailored to your home’s architecture and landscaping.
  2. Cleaner installation with hidden wires and properly placed fixtures.
  3. Correct transformer sizing so lights work efficiently without flicker or dimming.
  4. Maintenance and repair support to keep your system in peak shape.
  5. Access to the best lighting and fixture options and pricing that homeowners can’t always find on their own.
  6. Professional design experience and insights into what works best where for both beauty and safety.
  7. Preview before you buy – see exactly what your lighting design will look like before committing with our unique demo installation.

And here’s something unique we offer: a demo installation that lets you experience your design in action before you commit. It takes the guesswork out of the process and ensures you’ll love the final look.

How DIY-Friendly Systems Work

If you’re handy and want to try a DIY approach, low voltage kits make it possible.

Typical DIY process:

  1. Plan fixture placement for best coverage.
  2. Install the transformer near an outdoor GFCI outlet.
  3. Run low-voltage cable along your planned path.
  4. Attach fixtures and bury the cable shallowly in soil or mulch.

These systems are plug-and-play compared to high-voltage work, but they still require careful planning to get the right look and coverage.

DIY is a good fit if:

  1. You’re working with a small, simple space.
  2. You’re comfortable with basic tools and following instructions.
  3. You don’t mind troubleshooting if a light flickers or cable connection loosens.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Home

The decision comes down to three things:

  1. Safety requirements – if it’s high voltage, hire an electrician.
  2. Complexity of design – intricate, high-impact lighting often benefits from pro installation.
  3. Your comfort level – even low voltage installs require planning, patience, and some skill.

For Minneapolis homeowners seeking beautiful, long-lasting results with minimal stress, collaborating with a company that handles design, installation, and ongoing care is often the most sensible approach.

Building Trust with Real Experience

At Lit Outdoor Lighting Company, we’ve seen it all – from small garden lighting refreshes to full-property designs with over 50 fixtures. We know how to design for Minnesota’s seasons, select fixtures that withstand winter, and create lighting effects that look great every night of the year.

Whether you need an electrician or not, our team can guide you toward the safest, most cost-effective solution that meets your vision.

Ready to See Your Home in the Best Light?

If you’ve been considering upgrading your landscape with outdoor lighting, we can show you exactly how it will look before you make a commitment. Our demo installation is the easiest way to explore your options, and it’s available throughout the Minneapolis metro area.

Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward a home that truly shines after dark.

FAQs

No. Low voltage systems don’t require an electrician in most areas. You just need a safe power source and a properly installed transformer.

Yes, but the line voltage portion must be installed by a licensed electrician to meet code.

LED low voltage systems are extremely energy efficient, costing just a few dollars per month to operate in most cases.

Yes, when properly installed and maintained. In Minnesota, we choose fixtures and connections designed for cold-weather performance.

Most residential projects are completed in 1 to 3 days, depending on size and complexity.

Light Up Your Home Without the Guesswork

Landscape lighting can completely transform your home’s look and feel at night. Whether you need an electrician or not depends on your system type and design, but the right planning and installation will pay off for years.

If you’re ready to explore your options, our team is here to guide you every step of the way – from design to installation to ongoing care. Contact us today for a free consultation and demo installation in the Minneapolis metro area.

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What Our Customers are Saying...

Discover why Homeowners and Businesses trust Lit Outdoor Lighting in Shorewood MN.
Learn how we've become the trusted resource for Outdoor Landscape Lighting Solutions in the Minneapolis Metro Area.

Taylor Bertin
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Taylor Bertin
October 7, 2025

Jonathan, is world class and most important I value his feedback which is honest and direct and rare to find here from sales people. His work is exceptional. The handful of revisions that we wanted modified he executed within five business days. He and his business are what you’re looking for if you’re shopping for an economic pathway to improve your home value please reach out if you have any questions.

Eric Deal
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Eric Deal
October 2, 2025

Jon (LIT Outdoor Lighting): Jon did a fantastic job updating our exterior lighting. He gave us clear options at different price points with zero pressure and even reused some old equipment to save costs. He’s hands-on (no subcontractors), punctual, and finished exactly as promised. Highly recommend!.

Andrew Wilson
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Andrew Wilson
September 6, 2025

Jonathon always comes out to fix any issue with our system, no matter how large or small. He does great work, and I recommend his service to others.

Lawrence Graham
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Lawrence Graham
September 2, 2025

We are so very pleased with LIT Outdoor Lighting . Incredibly responsive whenever we have an issue even when we have dug through a cable by mistake! The annual service contract is well worth it as they check everything and do preventative maintenance so we have beautiful lighting all through the year. Highly recommended.

F S
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F S
August 29, 2025

I have hired Jonathon to install a variety of lights in both the front and back of my house. In addition he was helpful with choosing light fixtures, some of which are made by a local Craftsman that Jonathon has access to. He has always done great work but in a world where customer service is no longer prioritized by many big and small companies, Jonathon stands alone. No matter the issue he has always stood behind his work and products. I highly recommend him - you will not go wrong.

Cat & Andrew Forsgren
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Cat & Andrew Forsgren
August 14, 2025

We loved working with Jonathan and appreciated his knowledge in lighting up our backyard. I knew the feeling I wanted for our landscape lighting, but I wasn’t sure what the end product should look like – Jonathan was so great at working with our vision and making the dream come to life. I wanted to be able to appreciate our backyard during the darker winter months, but in the meantime it has completely transformed how we’ve used our deck this summer. With the trees, rock wall, and decorative cabin lit up, we can appreciate our full backyard at night. So happy with the end product and we look forward to doing our front yard someday!

Chris Johnson
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Chris Johnson
August 7, 2025

LIT Outdoor installed and maintains our neighborhood's monument lighting, including color changing LEDs and programmable effects. Great work and excellent service. Highly recommend!

Lowell Pajari
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Lowell Pajari
July 27, 2025

Jonathan has an artistic flair for stunning results. His creativity in lighting design extends to offering his clients an opportunity to add their own artful concepts. He has skilled craftsman and sculptors that help bring beautiful, timeless works of art into your lighting scheme. Here's a couple examples of Jonathan's ideas.

Heather Way
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Heather Way
July 23, 2025

We couldn’t be happier with our experience with Lit Outdoor Lighting Company! After redoing our landscaping, we needed our outdoor lighting repaired and repositioned, and the results are fantastic. Everything was installed with care and perfectly adjusted to highlight the new landscape. Our yard looks incredible at night—exactly what we were hoping for. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor space with beautiful, well-executed lighting!

Spencer Way
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Spencer Way
July 23, 2025

Jon was fantastic! He was on time, professional, and reasonably priced. I will use him for all future outdoor lighting needs, no question. Highly recommended!

Nicki Zeidner
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Nicki Zeidner
July 11, 2025

I’d highly recommend Jonathon at LitOutdoorLighting. He is great at making suggestions for new lighting options and very responsive for helping us maintain our original outdoor lighting installations.

Brent Berkovitz
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Brent Berkovitz
July 6, 2025

I had damage to my landscape lighting and my invisible dog fence after the cable company showed up unannounced and started digging in the yard. Jon provided me with service the same day I called and everything got repaired. Thank you!

kim buhl
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kim buhl
June 30, 2025

Jonathan is very knowledgeable about all things outdoor lighting. He listens to your thoughts about what is wanted for outdoor lighting and executes the vision well. His creativity in difficult areas to light is top notch. Highly recommend his services for all your outdoor lighting needs.

servs sev
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servs sev
June 26, 2025

Jonathon was great to work with. Great at listening to what we wanted ad offered suggestions that resulted in amazing landscape lighting. Installation was perfect. We couldn't be happier with the lighting he and his crew installed - looks amazing. Jonathon went above and beyond what is required to get the job done timely and to our satisfaction. Highly recommend LIT as a trusted company that will help make your property look great!

Dan Hendrickson
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Dan Hendrickson
June 26, 2025

Thrilled with the service and product. Great communication and was completed faster than expected.

Jill Ann Schultze
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Jill Ann Schultze
June 25, 2025

Jon is extremely efficient and reliable. Quick turnaround on all requests. He also had great lighting ideas for my property. I highly recommend LIT Outdoor Lighting Company.

Aubrey Bork Vannatta
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Aubrey Bork Vannatta
June 24, 2025

Jonathon was a great listener and communicator when adding lighting to our new deck. We put significant investment and thought into our new deck, and I thought Jonathon really understood the perfecting touch that added lighting would have as we enjoyed the space into the evening hours. He was able to suggest some ideas and stay within our budget. As we have needed adjustments since then, he’s been responsive and made sure we can continue to enjoy the space. Outdoor light can add a magical touch! I would highly recommend Lit Outdoor Lighting Company!

Mark Borman
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Mark Borman
June 17, 2025

Jonathan has been my go-to landscape lighting provider for many years. Always happy with his work quality and annual maintenance services. He is a great person to work with, very responsive to requests and charges fair prices.

Phil Miller
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Phil Miller
June 17, 2025

Jonathon is great to work with. We're super happy with the lighting he and his crew installed in our back yard...our neighbors are jealous! And he goes above and beyond what is required to get the job done to our satisfaction. We recommend LIT as a trusted company that will help make your property look great!

Quinton
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Quinton
June 12, 2025

We had an excellent experience with Jon! We were very particular about our landscape lighting design, from the layout to the actual lights (color, style, you name it) and Jon was super helpful in guiding us through our options and pricing. Installation was clean and straightforward and we love the convenience of the timer and all of the optional settings. Jon provides prompt maintenance too -- we've had a few knocked over by our dogs and he got them right back up and working in no time! We highly recommend his services!

Larry Stranghoener
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Larry Stranghoener
June 5, 2025

Jon reached out to me in late winter to propose a service call to ensure my outdoor lights were functioning properly - just as I was realizing some of my lights were not working. As we agreed, he followed up to schedule an appointment in April, showed up on time, and took care of a number of issues at a reasonable cost. I will gladly use his services again!

Nick & Jill DeVries
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Nick & Jill DeVries
June 4, 2025

Jonathon is a master at his craft! Highly recommend LIT if you are looking to take your landscaping and yard to the next level.

Susan Perdew
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Susan Perdew
June 3, 2025

We've been working with Jonathan, the owner of LIT Outdoor Lighting Company for over 10 years—and we couldn't be happier with the results. From day one, Jonathan has been incredibly responsive, professional, and detail-oriented. He and his team consistently deliver high-quality, low-voltage lighting solutions that enhance the beauty, safety, and overall ambiance of our home. What sets LIT apart is not just the quality of their work, but the reliability of their service. They're always prompt, communicate clearly, and follow through without fail. Jonathan has a great eye for design and continually helps us think through how to improve and expand our outdoor lighting over time. Their pricing is fair and clearly reflects the value of the work they do—exceptional craftsmanship, premium products, and service that lasts. In a world where it's hard to find consistent, trustworthy partners, Jonathan and LIT stand out as true professionals. Highly recommended!

Jesse Bertogliat
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Jesse Bertogliat
June 3, 2025

Jon was very professional, helpful and timely, he will be my first call for my lighting needs in the future

Charles B
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Charles B
June 3, 2025

Jonathon and team did a great job with my lighting in my yard! When I moved into my home, there was an existing system that needed a lot of work, and LIT Outdoor was able to come out and replace everything and put in a better system! I've been utilizing their yearly maintenance program ever since, and it's been great! Always willing to come out if there are any issues or burnt out bulbs. Highly recommend!

Nathan Burns
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Nathan Burns
June 2, 2025

I Just love my backyard lighting Jonathon does excellent work and was a joy to work with

Barry Zilka
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Barry Zilka
June 2, 2025

Lit Lighting is a great operation. Perfect service. Every spring they come and clean, fix if necessary and replace bulbs as needed. Jonathon is timely and does great work. Their initial installation was seamless.