Security Gates for Access Roadways and Driveways

Maintaining required fire department access to properties while maintaining the integrity of the security system.

Driveway: A vehicular access roadway less than 20 feet in width and serving no more than two single-family dwellings.

Access Road: A vehicular access roadway greater than or equal to 20 feet in width.

Security Gate: A gate either manually or electrically operated that separates access roadways or driveways, allowing the passage of authorized vehicles and persons only.

Electric Control: An electric device that controls the opening and closing operation of a gate by the use of keys or coded number pads.

1. No gate may be installed across a required fire department access road or driveway without prior approval of the Fire Department. A detailed plan shall be submitted for review and approval prior to commencing any work. This requirement may be modified depending upon the complexity of the installation.

2. When padlocks are used to secure gates, they shall only be of a type approved by the Fire Department. (See also #4)

3. Gates equipped with electric control devices also shall have an override key switch installed. The key switch shall be of a type approved by the Fire Department. (See also #4 and #10)

4. Authorization forms for ordering fire department approved key switches and padlocks shall be obtained by contacting the Fire Prevention Division of the Fire Department.

5. All electrically controlled gates shall be provided with a manual override to allow operation of the gate during a power outage.

6. When open, gates shall not obstruct any portion of the required width of the driveway or access road.

7. Gates shall be adequately supported to prevent dragging.

8. Gates shall be operable by one person.

9. Swing-style gates shall open a full 90 degrees and may swing in either direction. Sliding gates shall slide parallel to the security fence.

10. All manually operated gates shall be designed so they remain in the open position when left unattended. Electrically operated gates shall be equipped with a fire department approved key switch. Activation of the switch shall open the gate(s) and cause it to remain in the open position until reset by emergency response personnel.

11. Vertical clearance over the required vehicular access road or driveway shall be not less than 13 feet 6 inches.

SD&SG-1/DJM/081902