To determine the correct height for your site’s height-restriction barrier, you need to balance access for permitted vehicles with effective restriction of unwanted ones.
Step-by-step approach:
- Identify the tallest permitted vehicle
Start with the maximum height of vehicles that must access the site (e.g. cars, vans, maintenance vehicles). Always include:- Roof racks, boxes, or equipment
- Loaded vehicle height (not just manufacturer specs)
- Decide what you want to exclude
Most sites aim to prevent entry of:- HGVs and large vans
- Motorhomes and caravans
- Oversized commercial vehicles
- Use typical UK benchmarks
- 2.0m – 2.2m → Standard for most car parks
- 2.1m → Common “middle ground” for cars, SUVs, and small vans
- 2.2m+ → If slightly taller vehicles need access
- Allow a safety margin
Build in at least 50–100mm tolerance to account for:- Suspension movement
- Uneven ground or resurfacing
- Measurement variations
- Assess site conditions
The actual usable clearance can be affected by:- Ground gradients or slopes
- Approach angles (vehicles rising or dipping)
- Surface changes over time
- Plan for occasional access
If taller vehicles need entry occasionally (e.g. deliveries or emergency access), consider:- Swing or hinged height barriers
- Removable or lockable designs
- Ensure correct signage placement
- Display the height clearly using RA1/RA2 reflective signage
- Position signs at both the barrier and advance approach points
Practical tip
If you’re unsure, it’s usually safer to slightly overestimate required clearance than risk blocking legitimate vehicles — but not so high that you lose control of access.
At Aremco Barriers, our UK-manufactured height restriction barriers are made to your exact specification. We can help you determine the ideal height based on vehicle types, site layout, gradients, and traffic flow, ensuring your barrier is safe, compliant, and fit for purpose from day one.
