Changes in chromatin structure are key determinants of genomic responses. Thus, methods that enable such measurements are instrumental for investigating genome regulation and function. Here, we report further developments and validation of a streamlined method of histone-based fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) that robustly detects chromatin compaction states in fixed and live cells, in 2D and 3D. We present a quality-controlled and detailed method that is simpler and faster than previous methods, and uses FLIMfit open-source software. We demonstrate the versatility of this chromatin FLIM through its combination with immunofluorescence and implementation in immortalised and primary cells. We applied this method to investigate the regulation of chromatin organisation after genotoxic stress and provide new insights into the role of ATM in controlling chromatin structure independently of DNA damage. Collectively, we present an adaptable chromatin FLIM method for examining chromatin structure and establish its utility in mammalian cells.