How to Choose Temporary Event Fencing for Crowd Control

Temporary fencing plays a critical role at concerts, festivals, sporting competitions and other events that attract a large crowd. Having the right event fencing for crowd control in place helps ensure the safety of participants and the smooth operation of the event. Security fences for events also protect valuable assets and guard against security breaches, potentially shielding organizers from legal and financial liability.

With the breadth of temporary fence options available, how can you determine the optimal choice for your event crowd control needs? Follow this guide to zero in on the best temporary fencing for crowd control.

Consider the event parameters

Before choosing temporary fencing, think about the nature and scale of the event. How long will it last, and how many people do you expect will attend? Do you anticipate long lines, and if so, in which locations?

Is the event indoors or outdoors? For outdoor events, you may want heavier fence bases to provide stability on uneven terrain and in harsh weather conditions such as strong wind. If you are using barriers, outdoor events may also call for heavier barriers.

Consult local fence regulations

A fence permit is often required to erect a fence, especially in public areas, to ensure that fencing does not create obstacles or hazards for the public. Failure to obtain a permit could lead to costly fines as well as legal liability.

The permitting process is designed to enforce local fence regulations that stipulate allowable fence height, material, placement, and other details. Barbed wire fence toppers are typically prohibited for safety reasons.

Types of temporary fencing for event crowd control

Your event requirements will determine what types of event fencing and barriers make the most sense for your needs. These are the main options to consider.

Plastic crowd control barriers

Lightweight and highly visible, plastic barriers are useful for directing foot traffic. They are a common choice for sports events, races and temporary line formations.

Temporary fence panels

Fast to install and easy to relocate, temporary fence panels are a good choice for short-term indoor or outdoor events.

These portable fence panels come in different materials. United Rentals offers galvanized steel panels that are rigid and hard to knock down. They feature sturdy bases and anti-climb mesh wire. The mesh wire is welded to reinforced frames held in place by base weights and/or sandbags.

Strong panel fencing such as galvanized steel panels is recommended near stages and high-traffic areas because they withstand crowd pressure.

For the largest events, smart, modular turnstiles can be added to modular fencing to restrict access to badge holders.

Chain-link fences

Chain-link fences typically cost less to rent than temporary fence panels and are ideal for long-term events and those requiring perimeter security. They are suitable for restricting access to VIP or backstage areas, though open spaces between the steel wires make them possible to climb.

Chain-link fence panels can be attached to above-ground posts embedded in a concrete base (the economical choice) or posts driven deep into the ground for maximum security and durability. Because they take longer to install and are not as easy to relocate as moveable fence panels, chain-link fences may not be the best choice for short-term events.

Be sure to have a carefully considered plan for where to position chain-link fences, and the resources to handle placement and removal. 

Bike rack barricades and steel barricades

Barriers allow for flexibility and quick adjustments in the crowd control layout.

Bike rack barricades are lightweight and easy to set up. Best for managing pedestrian traffic and delineating pathways, they are suited for events with light crowd control needs.

Heavier-duty steel barricades are the better barrier choice for crowd control at larger events, including high-security events such as concerts. They are suitable for creating walking paths and preventing access to restricted areas.

Jersey barriers

Concrete jersey barriers and plastic jersey barriers are ideal for vehicle traffic control and high-security areas. The plastic variety can be filled with water or sand for weight and sturdiness. Jersey barriers are essential for large-scale events at which crowd protection from vehicles is necessary.

Adding additional safety and security

Need a high-security fence for an event? Temporary event fences can be customized to boost security and safety.

For example, fence stabilizers can be added to temporary fence panels for extra stability on difficult terrain and in extreme weather conditions. They reduce the risk of the fence being blown or pushed over. Adding sandbags for extra support is another option.

For longer-term events, driven posts provide superior security compared to above-ground posts or, in the case of fence panels, tube or peg stands.

Gates for vehicle and pedestrian access

Event managers may need to create entry and exit points for vehicle access, including emergency responder access. Kits for rolling or sliding vehicle gates turn temporary fencing panels into vehicle access points.

A pedestrian gate is useful for managing pedestrian access to restricted areas.

Branding and aesthetics

Customized wind screens or fence wraps provide the finishing touch. Add the event sponsor logo, images of featured performers or directional signage. You can wrap the entire fence or just certain sections.

The value of partnering with an experienced temp fence provider

The optimal event fencing for crowd control helps organizers ensure safety, maintain an orderly flow of foot traffic and create a pleasant experience for attendees. Partnering with an experienced temp fence provider such as United Rentals can help you make informed decisions about which types of fences and barriers to choose based on the event size, location, security needs, local permitting requirements and budget. A trusted partner can also advise on how best to secure fences based on the environment and level of security required.

The United Rentals temporary fence team can visit the site, assess the event fencing needs, offer product recommendations and advise on fence and barricade placement. Leveraging United Rentals for professional installation and takedown services gives event organizers one less thing to worry about.

For help with temporary fences, barriers and traffic control equipment at your next event, call your nearest branch or visit our online Marketplace and request a quote.