Best Bollards for Car Parks: Types, Heights & Specifications
Car parks present unique challenges: constant low-speed vehicle manoeuvring, pedestrian conflict zones, access control needs, and the requirement for products that withstand repeated minor impacts without constant replacement.
Bollard Types for Car Parks
1. Flexible Rubber Bollards
The most popular choice for active car park environments. They deflect on low-speed impact and return to shape, will not damage vehicles on glancing contact.
| Specification | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Height above ground | 700–1000mm |
| Diameter | 90–120mm |
| Colour | Black/yellow, yellow, black/red |
| Fixing | Surface mount, 4 anchor bolts |
| Retroreflective band | Yes (most products) |
See our parking bollards range.
2. Steel Fixed Bollards
For areas requiring more substantial protection — entrance/exit barriers, pay station protection. Typically 76mm–114mm diameter, 1000mm above ground, powder-coated. Core-drilled installation provides maximum security.
3. Removable / Lockable Bollards
Where access needs vary — reserved bays, management areas, loading zones. The bollard stows in a flush ground socket when access is needed.
Heights and Positioning Guidance
| Application | Recommended Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pedestrian walkway protection | 900–1000mm | Visible to all vehicles |
| Bay definition | 350–500mm | Visible when exiting vehicle |
| Column protection | 600–800mm | Set 300mm from column face |
| Pay station / CCTV protection | 900–1000mm | 2 bollards minimum each side |
Spacing Guidelines
- Pedestrian zone protection: Maximum 1,200mm between bollard centres to prevent vehicle passage
- Wheelchair/pushchair access: Minimum 1,000mm clear gap between bollards (DDA compliance)
- Cyclist access points: Minimum 1,500mm clear gap
Browse our car park bollard range or our full bollards collection.