Crowd Control Bollards for Guest Parking Safety

Crowd control bollards are one of the most effective tools for keeping guest parking areas safe, organized, and easy to manage. Whether you oversee an apartment complex, HOA, business park, or event space, bollards help protect your property while improving the guest experience.

When paired with parking permits, signage, and ADA compliance tools like the international symbol of accessibility, they create a secure and welcoming setup for every type of visitor.

Why You Need Bollards for Guest Parking Security

Guest parking may seem simple—but without a clear system, it can create major issues:

• Blocked accessible parking spaces

• Unauthorized vehicles staying too long

• Emergency lanes or resident spots taken

• Confused visitors unsure where to park

Crowd control bollards offer a way to fix that. They guide traffic, limit access to certain areas, and clearly mark boundaries between guest and resident zones. They’re also easy to move or lock, making them ideal for temporary access control.

Learn more in our Summer Security Prep Guide for Businesses, which includes parking and access tips.

Best Types of Crowd Control Bollards for Guest Parking

Not all bollards are the same. Here are a few types that work best for guest parking and access control:

1. Removable Steel Bollards

These heavy-duty posts are installed in sleeves in the ground and can be lifted out when access is needed. They’re great for driveways or entry points where you occasionally allow guests or deliveries.

2. Collapsible or Folding Bollards

These fold flat to the ground when not in use. Many include built-in locks so only approved staff or residents can open them. They’re perfect for controlling temporary parking access.

3. Surface-Mount Bollards

If you can’t dig into the ground, surface-mounted bollards are a simple solution. Use them to block off areas in parking garages, commercial lots, or event spaces.

Shop all crowd control bollards to find the right fit for your property.

Tips for Setting Up Guest Parking With Bollards

To create a secure and easy-to-navigate guest parking area, follow these simple tips:

Mark Guest-Only Zones Clearly

Use bollards to block off resident areas and guide guests toward their designated spots. Include parking permits and signs at entry points to prevent confusion.

Hosting a summer event? Check out our tips to prep your parking lot for seasonal crowds.

Protect Accessible Parking Spaces

ADA guidelines require clear marking and access for accessible parking spaces. Use bollards to keep these areas free from misuse, and make sure the international symbol of accessibility is displayed on signage and ground markings.

Separate Entry and Exit Lanes

Placing bollards between incoming and outgoing traffic helps avoid congestion and improves safety, especially in tight areas like community garages or event venues.

Add Lighting or Reflective Tape

Choose bollards in highly visible colors like yellow or orange, or add reflective tape to ensure guests can see them at night.

Make Emergency Access Easy

Use collapsible or key-locked bollards on fire lanes or delivery areas so they can be opened in seconds during an emergency.

Bonus Tools to Improve Guest Parking Security

Bollards work best when paired with other simple tools:

• Parking permits: Hand these out to visitors for easy tracking and enforcement.

• Security cameras: Monitor who comes and goes, especially in shared lots.
  Here are the best camera angles for full coverage while you're away.

• Access control systems: Use automatic gates or keypad entry to regulate traffic.
  Consider the Genie Smart Slide Gate Opener for simple, secure access.

• Signs: Add clear signs with rules, guest zones, and ADA markings.

Pair your bollards with gate openers and operators for full access control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some issues that cause problems in guest parking—and how crowd control bollards help prevent them:

 

➡️ Read how to stay ahead of risks in our guide on why property crime rises in summer.

Guest Parking Security Checklist

Make sure your parking setup includes the following:

• Bollards at key entry, exit, or blocked zones

• Guest spots marked with signage and permits

• Clear access to accessible parking spaces

• ADA signage with the international symbol of accessibility

• Extra safety tools like lights, cameras, or access systems