Installing a fence around a commercial property can improve security, control access, protect equipment, and create a clear boundary around your business. But choosing the right commercial fence involves more than deciding on a material and height.
From security needs and gate placement to local regulations and future maintenance, several factors should be considered before installation begins. Taking the time to plan your project can help ensure your new fence works well for your property for years to come.
1. Determine the Main Purpose of Your Fence
Start by identifying what you want the fence to accomplish.
Some businesses primarily need a fence to prevent unauthorized access. Others may want to protect equipment, create privacy, control vehicle traffic, or improve the appearance of their property.
Common reasons for installing commercial fencing include:
- Improving property security
- Protecting equipment and inventory
- Controlling access to restricted areas
- Creating a defined property boundary
- Adding privacy
- Separating pedestrian and vehicle traffic
- Improving the appearance of a commercial property
Knowing your priorities makes it easier to choose the appropriate fence material, height, and layout.
2. Choose the Right Type of Commercial Fence
Different fence materials provide different benefits.
Chain link fencing is a popular choice for commercial and industrial properties because it is durable, cost-effective, and provides visibility. It’s commonly used around warehouses, equipment yards, storage facilities, and other commercial properties.
Ornamental fencing provides security while offering a more finished appearance. It can be a good option for offices, apartment communities, commercial entrances, and other properties where appearance is particularly important.
The best choice depends on your property’s security requirements, appearance, budget, and intended use.
3. Consider the Appropriate Fence Height
Commercial fence height should be based on the level of security your property requires.
A 6-foot fence may provide an effective boundary for many commercial properties, while warehouses, equipment yards, industrial facilities, and other higher-security locations may benefit from an 8-foot or taller fence.
Before selecting a height, local zoning and building requirements should also be reviewed. Some municipalities restrict fence heights based on zoning, property location, visibility, and proximity to streets or intersections.
4. Plan Your Gates Carefully
Gates are one of the most important parts of a commercial fencing system.
Think about who needs access to the property and what types of vehicles regularly enter the site. A gate used primarily by employees may have very different requirements from one used by delivery trucks, trailers, or heavy equipment.
Consider:
- Gate location
- Gate width
- Employee access
- Customer access
- Delivery vehicles
- Emergency access
- Traffic flow
- Future access needs
Planning these details before installation can prevent inconvenient or expensive changes later.
5. Think About Security Beyond the Fence
A commercial fence is only one part of your property’s overall security.
Pay particular attention to entrances, gates, corners, parking areas, outdoor equipment, and other potential access points.
Visibility can also be important. For some businesses, chain link or ornamental fencing allows employees or security cameras to maintain a clear view of the perimeter. Other properties may benefit more from privacy screening.
The right approach depends on the property and what you’re trying to protect.
6. Know Your Property Lines
Before installing a commercial fence, make sure you understand exactly where your property begins and ends.
Installing a fence in the wrong location can create disputes with neighboring property owners or require portions of the fence to be relocated.
Depending on the property and existing documentation, a professional survey may be helpful before determining the final fence line.
7. Check Local Codes and Permit Requirements
Commercial fencing may be subject to municipal zoning ordinances, building codes, setback requirements, and permit rules.
Requirements can vary depending on the community and zoning district. Regulations may address fence height, location, materials, visibility near intersections, and other design considerations.
Checking these requirements before ordering materials or beginning construction can help avoid delays.
8. Consider the Terrain
Commercial properties aren’t always perfectly flat.
Slopes, drainage areas, retaining walls, pavement, landscaping, and other site conditions can affect how a fence needs to be installed.
An experienced commercial fence contractor can evaluate the property and determine how these conditions may affect fence placement, posts, gates, and the overall installation.
9. Plan for Maintenance and Longevity
Commercial fencing is a long-term investment, so consider how much maintenance the fence will require.
Durable materials and professional installation can reduce future problems, but fences should still be periodically inspected for damaged sections, loose hardware, leaning posts, and gate problems.
For businesses with frequent truck or equipment traffic, areas near gates and loading zones may require particular attention.
10. Choose an Experienced Commercial Fence Contractor
Commercial fence installations can be significantly different from residential projects. Larger properties, taller fences, commercial gates, security requirements, and challenging site conditions can make proper planning especially important.
Working with an experienced contractor can help you determine the appropriate fence type, height, layout, and gate configuration for your property.
Planning a Commercial Fence in Southern Illinois?
A well-designed commercial fence should provide the security and functionality your business needs while fitting the layout and appearance of your property.
Belleville Fence provides commercial fencing solutions for businesses, industrial properties, apartment communities, warehouses, equipment yards, and other commercial properties throughout Southern Illinois.
If you’re looking for an experienced commercial fence contractor in Belleville, IL and the surrounding Metro East area, contact Belleville Fence to discuss your property and commercial fencing needs.