There is a requirement for lighting through the exit discharge, and there is always an occupant load...
EXIT DISCHARGE. That portion of a means of egress system
between the termination of an exit and a public way.
[A] PUBLIC WAY. A street, alley or other parcel of land
open to the outside air leading to a street, that has been
deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated to
the public for public use and which has a clear width and
height of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
1006.1 Illumination required. The means of egress, including
the exit discharge, shall be illuminated at all times the
building space served by the means of egress is occupied.