How to Safeguard Your Property with Parking Bollards

Molly Crowe
2 days ago
4 min read

Have you ever returned home only to find someone’s car blocking your driveway? Or maybe you worry about accidental (or intentional) vehicle damage to your shopfront? Perhaps you’re simply tired of playing “parking police” at your business premises.

If any of this sounds familiar, parking bollards could be the practical, affordable solution you’ve been searching for. Across Australia, more property owners are turning to bollards for their durability, versatility, and even style. Whether you’re protecting your driveway, retail store, or car park, bollards act as reliable guardians that clearly mark where vehicles can and can’t go.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: from the different types of bollards and their costs to council approvals, installation tips, and smart technology options.

What Are Parking Bollards and How Do They Work?

Parking bollards are sturdy, vertical posts designed to restrict or control vehicle access. They serve as a physical barrier to protect people, buildings, and property. Unlike painted lines or warning signs that drivers often ignore, bollards send a clear message: “You can’t drive past this point.”

They’re especially useful in settings where you want to maintain pedestrian access or visibility without blocking the view. From commercial properties to private driveways, bollards create structure, safety, and order.

Types of Parking Bollards

Not all bollards are built alike choosing the right one depends on your purpose and space.

Fixed Bollards

These are permanently installed into the ground and offer the highest level of security. Perfect for preventing ram-raids or protecting building perimeters, they provide maximum impact resistance.

Removable Bollards

Ideal for spaces needing occasional vehicle access, these bollards can be unlocked and taken out as required. Commonly used in car parks, event venues, or shared driveways.

Retractable or Telescopic Bollards

Retractable bollards disappear into the ground when not needed and rise again when required. They’re great for driveways, shared spaces, and areas needing both security and flexibility.

Fold-Down Bollards

Compact and easy to use, these bollards lie flat when not in use. They’re a budget-friendly choice for small driveways or reserved parking spots.

Decorative and Smart Bollards

These combine aesthetics and functionality. Some are designed to match architectural styles or include lighting, branding, or even smart access features like keypads or remote controls.

Materials and Durability: Steel, Concrete, or Polymer?

Choosing the right material affects both appearance and performance:

Steel Bollards – Durable, affordable, and available in various finishes. Stainless steel versions resist rust, making them ideal for coastal regions.
Concrete Bollards – Extremely tough and low-maintenance, suitable for high-security areas or heavy-traffic zones.
Polymer Bollards – Lightweight, non-corrosive, and versatile in design. Perfect for low-impact areas or where aesthetics matter most.

Each has unique strengths your choice depends on whether you value impact resistance, maintenance ease, or visual appeal.

Do You Need Council Approval for Bollards?

In most cases, installing bollards on private property doesn’t require council approval. However, rules vary by location and circumstances.

If your installation affects public access, footpaths, or street views, you’ll likely need council permission. Councils assess factors like pedestrian safety, emergency vehicle access, and heritage impact before granting approval.

Quick Tips:

Contact your local council’s planning department before installing.
Ensure bollards don’t obstruct pedestrian movement or emergency access.
In heritage zones, opt for designs that complement the area’s character.

It’s much easier to confirm first than to remove non-compliant installations later.

Benefits of Installing Parking Bollards

Beyond stopping unauthorised parking, bollards deliver multiple long-term advantages:

Prevent Unauthorised Parking

Say goodbye to drivers using your private driveway or business car spaces. Retractable or removable bollards ensure only approved vehicles can enter, giving you total control.

Protect Buildings and Property

Bollards absorb or deflect vehicle impact, protecting shopfronts, glass facades, and corners from accidents or ram-raids. Many insurance companies even reduce premiums for properties with bollard protection.

Manage Traffic and Access Flow

They guide traffic movement, separate pedestrian zones, and prevent unsafe shortcuts. For commercial sites, bollards define delivery zones or outdoor dining areas with ease.

Boost Kerb Appeal and Property Value

Modern bollards enhance your property’s look while improving safety a win-win combination. From stainless steel to solar-lit designs, they add polish and professionalism to any setting.

Choosing the Right Bollards for Your Property

Finding the perfect bollard means balancing security, design, and practicality.

Assess your risks: Are you deterring casual parking or preventing ram-raids?
Match your style: Choose colours and finishes that suit your building.
Maintain accessibility: Ensure at least 1.2m of space between bollards for wheelchair access and pedestrian flow.
Plan for emergencies: Use removable or retractable bollards where emergency vehicles may need entry.

The best solution fits seamlessly into your daily operations while offering the right level of protection.

Can Bollards Stop Ram-Raids?

Yes but only the right kind. Anti-ram bollards are engineered to resist deliberate impact from heavy vehicles. They’re tested under the PAS 68 rating system, which measures how much force they can withstand.

For example, a bollard rated for 7,500kg at 50km/h can stop a large truck. While this level of security isn’t necessary for every site, it’s vital for banks, jewellery stores, and high-value retail.

Maintenance Made Simple

Bollards are low-maintenance, but regular checks keep them effective for years.

Inspect monthly: Look for rust, cracks, or loose fittings.
Clean regularly: Use mild detergent to prevent corrosion.
Repaint or polish: Touch up chips promptly to stop rust forming.
Replace damaged bollards: Especially if they’ve endured a serious impact.

With proper care, quality bollards can last 15–20 years, providing excellent return on investment.

Smart Bollards: The Future of Access Control

Modern bollards are evolving fast. Smart and solar-powered bollards now combine technology with security.

Automatic rising bollards: Operated via remote, keypad, or smartphone for seamless access control.
Solar-powered LED bollards: Provide lighting and visibility without wiring.
Integrated systems: Connect to CCTV, number-plate recognition, or building management systems for remote monitoring and data tracking.

These innovations make managing access easier, greener, and more secure than ever before.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Investment for Any Property

Parking bollards are far more than metal posts in the ground they’re reliable, long-term guardians of your property. Whether you’re protecting your driveway from intruders or securing a commercial site against ram-raids, the right bollards offer peace of mind, improved safety, and added property value.

By matching the right type, design, and installation method to your needs, you’ll enjoy lasting protection with minimal maintenance. So don’t wait for the next parking nuisance or near miss; invest in parking bollards today and safeguard your space for years to come.