Ensuring Accessibility and Compliance for Your Property
When planning a commercial fencing project, security is often the top priority—but accessibility and safety are just as important. Businesses in the St. Louis Metro East must ensure their fencing meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements while also maintaining a safe environment for employees, customers, and visitors.
Failing to meet these standards can lead to liability issues, fines, and a poor user experience. Here’s what you need to know when designing or installing a commercial fence.
What Is ADA Compliance in Commercial Fencing?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that public and commercial properties be accessible to individuals with disabilities. While fencing itself isn’t always directly regulated, gates, entry points, and pathways around fencing must meet accessibility standards.
This includes:
Accessible entry and exit points
Proper gate widths
Smooth, navigable surfaces
Easy-to-use hardware
If your fence restricts access or creates barriers, your property could be considered non-compliant.
Key ADA Requirements for Commercial Fencing
1. Accessible Gate Openings
Commercial fence gates must allow easy access for wheelchairs and mobility devices.
Best practices:
Minimum clear width of 32 inches (standard ADA requirement)
Wider gates recommended for high-traffic areas
Gates should open smoothly without excessive force
2. Maneuvering Clearance Around Gates
There must be enough space for individuals to approach, open, and pass through gates.
Important considerations:
Adequate clearance on both sides of the gate
No tight turns or obstructions near entry points
Level ground for safe navigation
3. Gate Hardware & Accessibility
Handles, latches, and locking mechanisms must be easy to operate.
ADA-friendly hardware includes:
Lever-style handles instead of knobs
Locks operable with one hand
No tight grasping, pinching, or twisting required
4. Pathways Along Fencing
If your fence directs foot traffic, pathways must be accessible.
Requirements include:
Smooth, stable, and slip-resistant surfaces
Minimum width of 36 inches for walkways
Proper slope and drainage to prevent hazards
Safety Considerations Beyond ADA Compliance
ADA compliance is just one part of the equation. Commercial fencing should also prioritize overall safety and risk reduction.
Secure but Safe Design
A well-designed fence should protect your property without creating hazards.
Key elements:
No sharp or exposed edges in public-facing areas
Proper fence height for security without obstructing visibility
Clearly marked entry and exit points
Crowd Control & Traffic Flow
For businesses, schools, and event spaces, fencing often helps guide foot traffic.
Considerations:
Clearly defined pathways
Separate entry and exit points when needed
Avoid bottlenecks that could cause congestion
Emergency Access
Your fence design must allow quick access for emergency personnel.
Best practices:
Emergency access gates
Clearly labeled entrances
Compliance with local fire codes
Weather & Durability in the Midwest
In the St. Louis Metro East, fencing must withstand changing weather conditions.
Important factors:
Materials resistant to rust and corrosion
Proper installation to handle wind and ground movement
Regular inspections to maintain safety
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Businesses often overlook critical details when installing commercial fencing. Avoid these common issues:
Installing gates that are too narrow
Using hard-to-operate latches or locks
Blocking accessible routes with fencing
Ignoring local building and safety codes
Failing to plan for long-term maintenance
Why Work with a Professional Commercial Fence Contractor?
ADA compliance and safety requirements can be complex. Working with an experienced contractor ensures your project is done correctly from the start.
At Belleville Fence Co., we help businesses throughout the St. Louis Metro East design and install commercial fencing that balances security, accessibility, and long-term durability.
We take into account:
ADA accessibility standards
Local codes and regulations
Property layout and traffic flow
Long-term performance and maintenance
Request a Commercial Fencing Estimate
If you’re planning a commercial fencing project, it’s important to get it right the first time. Working with an experienced commercial fence contractor ensures your property meets ADA requirements while maintaining safety, security, and long-term performance.
At Belleville Fence Co., we provide expert commercial fencing solutions throughout the St. Louis Metro East. Contact us today to request a free estimate and see why businesses trust our team as their go-to commercial fence contractor.