This is a reminder to all stations of the Dark Audit 60-day window to rectify Q1 infractions in order to pass the Q2 Dark Audit. Failures corrected and submitted via the cure process need to earn 80% or above to pass.

The Dark Audit assessment surveys: 

• The yearly Dark Audit was conducted during Q1 of 2025, separately from the Q1 Excellence in Action Shop, and focused on nine questions relating to exterior lighting. 

• Dark audits are conducted any time from sunset until sunrise. Sites were considered “open” and eligible for evaluation if pumps were operational. 

• The passing score for Dark Audits is now 80%. Any score below 80% is considered failing. 

• All dark audit questions are cure eligible for 60 days from the date of the shop to allow sites an extended opportunity to correct any issues identified during the shop and obtain a passing score.  

• A failing score on the 2025 Dark Audit will automatically trigger a failing score for the Q2 Excellence in Action Shop. Even if the site passes the Q2 Excellence in Action shop, the score will remain until the Dark Audit is successfully passed.  

• The cost for the Dark Audit program is $50 per audit per site. 

• View the new 2025 Dark Audit questionnaire 

For more information, please visit the Excellence in Action program guidelines or visit the IPSOS portal to view your site assessment or audit scores.