DOES A PLAYGROUND FENCE MAKE SENSE

What are some of the uses and benefits of fences?

• Erecting a fence around a pool improves safety and limits unaccompanied access
• Fencing around animal enclosures serve to protect the animals, people and environment
• Fences help to define a space and restrict access to a secure facility

Erecting fencing is a smart practice and it makes sense in many areas and for many reasons.

Across Australia, fencing standards and laws vary according to your location and the type of fence you’re building. They address the types of fencing materials used, the height and use of a fence, the positioning of it and the difference between a fence and a retaining wall and ensuring it does not restrict water run-off.

ADVANTAGES, DISADVANTAGES & CONSIDERATIONS 

But, does it make sense to fence a playground? Is a fence around a playground a legal requirement? And, if it is, what kind of fencing is the right option?

Fencing playgrounds has various disadvantages and advantages. It takes careful consideration and should be reviewed on a project-by-project basis in order to determine whether a fence is actually required around a play space.

There is no standard in place for fencing around play spaces, so each case should be considered on its own merit and requirements. Play Australia discourages Councils from erecting structures like fences that are intended to separate children from adults within a playground area. However, they do encourage the design of stimulating play spaces that foster integrated use by children and their families alike, with no barriers to separation.

Fencing around outdoor play spaces assists in preventing children from running out into hazards such as a busy road and waterways or to keep animals out.

While fencing is not a mandatory requirement for public play spaces, the need for fencing should be determined by conducting a risk assessment.

Some factors for consideration include:

• Is the play space adjacent to a busy road?
• Is the play space near a waterway?
• Is a cycleway included in the play space?
• Is there a dog park located near the play space?
• Is the design of the play space for younger children?
• Are full or partial barriers required?
• Is there an opportunity to design garden beds/hedges as barriers?

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