Anti-climb spikes for garden fences: you could be sued by a trespasser
ANTI-CLIMB SPIKES on your garden fence can increase the security of your home, but you may be breaking the law.
Fences often cause unrest among neighbors. In addition, you must take into account certain legal aspects before you can reinforce your fence with security.
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Are plastic garden gate pins illegal?
In the UK, plastic pegs on your garden fence are legal as long as they meet the legal requirements.
While it’s fine to stop trespassers, the Occupiers’ Liability Act of 1984 states that homeowners still have a duty of care to others.
If someone is injured because there are no warning signs, the property owner may face legal consequences.
Therefore, homeowners can be held legally liable for injuries, even to people who are not authorized to be on their property, and they can potentially be sued by the trespasser if your fencing does not meet legal requirements.
What are the specific restrictions for using plastic fence pins in your garden?
To legally deter intruders without injuring people or animals, your fence must meet the following requirements:
The maximum height for a garden fence in the UK is two metres. Therefore, anti-climb spikes cannot be fitted to a fence that is lower than this height.
If you want to make your fence higher, you will need to apply for planning permission from your local council first. Failure to do so could result in a fine of £20,000.
If you find out that the fence you want to attach plastic spikes to is owned by your neighbor, you should first ask permission before making any changes to it.
If you have garden plants of any kind, clear warning signs should be posted to alert trespassers.
The spikes may not cause harm to people or animals. For example, spikes are not suitable for schools, youth centres, psychiatric hospitals or public buildings.
Spikes should not be placed with the intention of injuring animals. Any changes to your fence should be made taking into account the presence of wild animals.
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What signage is required for plastic garden gate pins?
By clearly communicating the presence of security measures through warning signs, you can deter intruders.
Warning signs should be placed at regular intervals along the fence so that they are clearly visible to anyone approaching.
Depending on the length of the fence, signs should be placed every 2 to 3 meters.
By warning offenders of the dangers of climbing with a sign that reads ‘Caution: Risk of injury from fence spikes’, legal requirements are met.
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