Fence Spikes and are they Legal in the UK?

Fence spikes and anti-climb devices are popular security measures used by property owners and businesses to deter trespassers, burglars, and even nuisance animals like cats or birds. They create a physical barrier that makes it difficult for people or animals to climb over a fence or wall. However, before installing them, it is crucial to understand the legal framework governing their use in the UK.

What Are Fence Spikes and Their Purpose?

Fence spikes are physical deterrents attached to fences, gates, and walls to prevent climbing. They come in various forms and materials, ranging from plastic to sharp metal spikes. Their primary purposes include:

Security: Discouraging trespassers and burglars from attempting to climb over a fence.

Animal Control: Preventing cats, birds, and other animals from accessing certain areas.

Deterrence: The presence of spikes can make a property look more secure, potentially discouraging criminal activity.

While effective, these devices can also send a message that there is something valuable within the property, which may attract unwanted attention. Therefore, legal compliance is essential when installing fence spikes.

Jacksons Fence Comb on fence panels.  Thank you to Creative Scapes for the super image and install example.  

UK Laws Covering Fence Spikes

Several laws regulate the use of fence spikes in the UK to ensure they do not pose an unreasonable risk to people or animals:

The Highways Act 1980

This law states that any "injury toppings" (such as barbed wire or spikes) on a wall or fence adjacent to a public highway must be positioned at a minimum height of 2.4 metres (approximately 8 feet). This prevents passers-by from accidentally injuring themselves. If spikes are placed below this height and cause injury, the property owner could be held liable.

Occupiers’ Liability Act 1984

This act places a duty of care on property owners to ensure that anyone entering their land, even trespassers, is not exposed to undue risk. If a person is injured by improperly installed or excessively dangerous fence spikes, the property owner could face legal consequences. This is why prominent warning signs are essential to alert individuals to the presence of these deterrents and help mitigate potential liability.

Animal Welfare Considerations

Certain anti-climb devices designed to deter animals, such as bird spikes and cat deterrents, must not cause unnecessary suffering. Animal cruelty laws, such as the Animal Welfare Act 2006, require that these devices be humane and non-lethal.

Types of Fence Spikes

There are various types of fence spikes available, each suited to different purposes:

Plastic Spikes

• Typically used to deter birds and small animals and as a visual detterant.
• Often found in products like Prikka Strips, which are designed to be uncomfortable but not harmful to cats and other animals.

Thin Metal Spikes

• Used mainly for bird control.
• Commonly seen on building ledges and fences to prevent pigeons from roosting or cats climbing.

Strong Metal Spikes

• Heavy-duty spikes such as ViperSpike are designed to deter human intruders.
• Often used on commercial and industrial properties.

Fence Security Comb

• These provide a row of jagged edges along the fence top, making it difficult to gain a grip and making it difficult to climb.
• Less aggressive than heavy-duty metal spikes and can be more attractive but still an effective deterrent.

CobraSpike and StegaStrip

• These provide a row of sharp spikes with jagged edges in different directions along the fence top, making it very difficult to gain a grip and climb.
• Very aggressive, an effective deterrent but can be a little unsightly in a garden.

Rotating Spikes (Rotaspike)

• A mechanical anti-climb system where spikes rotate if someone attempts to grip them.
• Used for high-security applications.

Barbed Wire

Not so much spikes but they do have spikes on the wire.

• A traditional security measure consisting of sharp-edged wire strands.
• Commonly used in rural areas, on top of fences, and around industrial sites.
• Effective for deterring both human intruders and large animals.

Prikka Sptrips, and Stegastrip can be found on Amazon.  Cobraspike, Security Comb and Rotaspike can all be purchased on Jacksons Fence Spikes page.

The Importance of Warning Signs

To comply with UK law and minimise liability, property owners should install clear warning signs where fence spikes are used. These signs alert potential trespassers and the public to the presence of anti-climb devices, reducing the risk of accidental injury and legal disputes.

For example, if you install metal security spikes or barbed wire, placing a sign stating "Warning: Sharp Spikes – Do Not Climb" can help fulfil your duty of care under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1984.

Rotating Spikes (RotaSpike) on a wall but can also be installed on a fence

Alternatives to Fence Spikes?

When looking for alternatives to traditional fence spikes for security or aesthetic purposes, there are several options to consider. One popular alternative is a trellis topper. A trellis, typically made of wood or metal, can be used to create a decorative barrier while providing support for climbing plants. It’s a great option if you're looking for something that adds visual interest to your garden while still serving as a deterrent to potential intruders. Although not as intimidating as spikes, a trellis can be combined with thorny vines like roses or ivy, making it more challenging for someone to climb.

Read our blog - Is Adding a Trellis Topper a Way to Prevent Burglars?

Another alternative is a fence designed without foot or hand holds, which can make it difficult for anyone to scale. These fences often use smooth materials such as concrete or plastic, or they can have a rounded or angled top, which eliminates any horizontal supports or rails that might act as footholds. The idea is that the lack of grips, combined with a height that is difficult to scale, will discourage climbing attempts. These types of fences offer a sleek, modern look and also provide privacy without the harsh appearance of spikes or barbed wire.

Read our blog on Home Security in You Garden

Should I Invest in Fence Spikes?

Fence spikes can be an effective way to enhance security and deter trespassers, but they must be used responsibly and within the law. Ensuring compliance with the Highways Act 1980 and Occupiers’ Liability Act 1984, along with the use of appropriate warning signage, will help prevent legal issues. Always consider whether your choice of anti-climb device is proportionate to the risk and does not cause unnecessary harm to people or animals.

Before installing any spikes, it may also be worth seeking legal advice or consulting your local council to confirm compliance with local regulations.