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How Far Apart Should Bollards Be Placed?

A Guide for Landscape Architects & Security Specifiers

Quick Answer: Typical Bollard Spacing at a Glance

  • Most sites: Place bollards 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m) apart, measured from the center of one post to the next.

  • Accessibility (ADA): Leave at least 36 inches (0.9 m) of clear space for wheelchairs and walkers.

  • Vehicle safety: Gaps should be no larger than 5 feet (1.5 m). For high-security areas, reduce spacing to 4 feet (1.2 m) or less.

  • Important: Always check local building codes before finalizing your layout.

Why Spacing Matters: People, Safety, and Design

Good bollard placement is about balance:

  • People first: Bollards should allow smooth pedestrian flow, including those using wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility aids.

  • Safety: They must be close enough to stop vehicles from sneaking through, especially in front of storefronts, schools, or public plazas.

  • Design: Bollards should line up neatly with benches, trees, planters, and lights. This makes the space look organized and welcoming.

Your goal matters too. A storefront protection line will need tighter spacing than a decorative walkway on a campus.

Spacing Rules by Application

Pedestrian & ADA Access

  • Keep at least 36 inches (0.9 m) of clear width for accessibility.

  • In busy areas, give a little more room (42–48 inches) for comfort.

  • Always measure from the outside of the sleeve or cover — not just the post.

Vehicle Deterrence & Storefront Protection

  • Standard safety: Gaps no larger than 5 feet (1.5 m).

  • Higher risk: Tighten to 4 feet (1.2 m) or less.

  • Match spacing to the likely vehicle approach angle and speed.

Sidewalks Next to Parking

  • Set bollards back about 1.5 feet (0.45 m) from the curb.

  • This gives people enough space to open car doors.

  • Leave extra room near accessible parking spaces.

Campuses, Schools, and Plazas

  • Use a steady rhythm of 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 m) apart.

  • Keep clear “desire lines” where people naturally walk.

  • Make sure emergency vehicles can still get through.

Utility and Asset Protection

  • For sensitive equipment, keep bollards 4 feet (1.2 m) or closer.

  • Consider adding rails or barriers for extra protection.

  • Don’t block maintenance crews from reaching equipment.

Spacing Summary Table

Use Case Recommended Spacing Notes
Pedestrian / ADA ≥36 in (0.9 m) clear width Measure at narrowest point
Vehicle Deterrence ≤5 ft (1.5 m) gap ≤4 ft (1.2 m) for higher risk areas
Sidewalk by Parking ~1.5 ft (0.45 m) from curb Allows car doors to open
Campuses / Plazas 4–5 ft (1.2–1.5 m) Comfort + natural walking patterns
Utilities / Assets ≤4 ft (1.2 m) or add rails Based on asset importance

Codes and Standards (Simplified)

  • ADA (Accessibility): At least 36 inches of clear space for people using mobility devices. Local versions may add more rules.

  • ASTM F2656 (Crash Testing): A U.S. crash standard. Some tested bollards only work if placed in a certain pattern — always follow manufacturer instructions.

  • Building Codes: Check International Building Code (IBC) and local rules for exits, sightlines, and fire department access.

  • Traffic Standards (MUTCD): Guidelines for bollards near crosswalks, schools, and intersections.

Note: Local planning departments have the final say. Always confirm with them before construction.

Layout Details: Lines, Corners, and Openings

  • Measurement: Measure from center to center. Don’t forget the sleeve width.

  • Corners: Place bollards closer together to stop diagonal vehicle movement.

  • Access Points: Leave 6–8 feet for gates, deliveries, or emergency access. Use removable or automatic bollards where needed.

  • Site Planning: Check for drainage, underground utilities, snow removal, and seasonal furniture.

TURN-KEY SOLUTIONS

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Measuring wrong: Forgetting to include sleeves or covers. Always measure the narrowest clear opening.

  • Corner gaps: Leaving wide angles that vehicles can cut through. Tighten bollards at corners.

  • Curb clearance issues: Placing bollards too close to curbs so car doors can’t open. Keep that 1.5-foot offset.

  • Code conflicts: Meeting one rule but breaking another. Always design to the strictest code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the standard distance between bollards?
A: Usually 3–5 feet apart, depending on security and accessibility needs.

Q: What is ADA-compliant clear width?
A: At least 36 inches (0.9 m) between bollards at the narrowest point.

Q: How close should bollards be for vehicle safety?
A: No more than 5 feet (1.5 m) apart. High-security areas should be 4 feet (1.2 m) or less.

Q: How far back from the curb should bollards be?
A: About 1.5 feet (0.45 m) to allow doors to open.

Q: Do decorative sleeves change spacing?
A: Yes. Measure spacing at the outer edge of the sleeve, not the post.

Getting Started: Your Next Steps

  • Download CAD/Revit details for ready-to-use layouts.

  • Request a site review from our team for project-specific advice.

Checklist before finalizing your design:

  • Clear width meets ADA rules

  • Local codes verified

  • Vehicle gaps under control

  • Corners secured

  • Emergency access allowed

  • Utilities and drainage checked

Ontario Bollards’ Perimeter Protection Team has extensive experience with both crash-rated and architectural bollards. Need help with your next project? Contact our team for site-specific support.