Football Pitch Fencing for Clubs

Overview
Product Spec
Club Tier Guide
Pricing
Installation
Test Reports
FAQs
Funding
Get a Quote
White PVCu perimeter fence running the length of a professional football pitch with floodlights

The UK's Specialist Pitch Perimeter Fencing

The Norvale Sport PVCu perimeter fence system — engineered to meet FA ground grading criteria at every step of the football pyramid. Supply only or fully managed supply & install, nationwide.

✓ Meets FA Ground Grading Criteria ✓ 15-Year Warranty ✓ SGS Certified ✓ Zero Maintenance ✓ Grant Funding Routes Explained

Two ways to buy

Whether your club has a capable groundsman or wants a professionally managed installation, we have an option to suit every budget.

Bundles of white PVCu sports fence posts, rails and mesh panels strapped on pallets, ready for delivery

Supply Only

Complete product kit delivered direct to your ground — posts, rails, mesh panels, gates and all hardware. Delivery is charged as a separate itemised line on every quote. Full installation guide and phone support included throughout.

Best for: Clubs with a capable groundsman or volunteer team

Is Your Club Meeting FA Ground Grading Requirements?

All clubs in the FA National League System (Steps 1–6) must have a permanent pitch perimeter barrier. The type required depends on your step — from post & rope at grassroots level through to a fully infilled barrier at Steps 1–4. We cover every requirement with three variants: Norvale Double Mesh (meets the infilled barrier requirement at Steps 1–4), Norvale Single Mesh (Steps 5–7), and Norvale Post & Rail (Step 7 minimum). Each is priced differently — see pricing by tier.

Funding — 70% standard, up to 100% where a solid wall must go

The Premier League Stadium Fund contributes 70% towards a new pitch perimeter barrier for clubs at Steps 1–6 and Women's Tiers 1–4, rising to up to 100% where an existing solid brick, breeze block or concrete barrier has to be removed or protected. There is no preferred supplier list. Note that the Football Foundation does not fund pitch perimeter barriers. See our full Funding Guide.

Why PVCu over traditional fencing?

Feature Norvale Sport System Traditional Steel Rail Timber Post & Rail
Maintenance required None — ever Repaint every 2–3 years Regular treatment & replacement
Meets FA infill requirement (Steps 1–4) ✓ Yes — double mesh infill Yes (if infilled) Not suitable at Steps 1–4
Independently tested SGS UV, temp & factory certified No independent certificate No certificate
DIY installation Yes — guide & support included Requires specialist welder Possible but skilled work
Warranty 15 years Varies 1–5 years typically
Appearance Bright white — permanently Can look industrial Greys and weathers over time
Future-proofed for promotion Yes — system for every step Depends on spec No

Our fence system range

Three product variants to match the requirement for your step. All three share the same posts, rails and finish — the difference is the mesh infill.

Three white PVCu pitch fence systems side by side showing post and rail, single mesh and double mesh infill options

Left to right: post & rail, single mesh and double mesh — the three infill options.

Norvale Single Mesh

Single-layer welded mesh infill. Meets the FA permanent barrier requirement at Steps 5–7 and the NLS feeder league minimum. Cost-effective option for lower tiers.

Suitable: Steps 5–7 and below

Norvale Post & Rail

Three-rail post and rail system, no mesh infill. Meets the Step 7 minimum requirement. Suitable for grassroots and Sunday league clubs.

Minimum: Step 7 and grassroots only
⚠ Important for clubs at Steps 1–4

If you are currently at Steps 1–4 with post & rope, post & rail with no infill, or hi-vis plastic fencing, this does not meet the FA requirement — you need a permanent infilled barrier. If what you have is a solid brick, breeze block or concrete wall, that is now prohibited at Steps 1–6 and the Premier League Stadium Fund may cover up to 100% of the cost of removing and replacing it.

Norvale Sport System — Full Specification

Complete technical specification for the Norvale Sport PVCu pitch perimeter fencing system. All dimensions are nominal. Three product variants are available — see the tier guide for which applies to your club.

Pitch setback by FA step

The FA sets a minimum distance between the edge of the pitch and the perimeter barrier. This varies by grade:

Step 1 — Grade A

National League
2,250mm min

Ideally 2,750mm. Infilled barrier required. New barriers funded by the PLSF at Grade 1 must be at 2.75m.

Steps 2–4 — Grades B–D

NL North/South through Div 1
1,830mm min

Infilled barrier required on all spectator sides.

Steps 5–6 — Grades E–F

Step 5 & 6 Leagues
1,830mm min

Permanent fixed barrier required. Infill strongly recommended.

Step 7 — Grade G/H

County Leagues / NLS Feeder
1,830mm ideal

Post & rope minimum. Permanent barrier ideally 2,000mm setback.

We recommend a standard setback of 2,250mm across all tiers for consistency, safety and future-proofing. Sources: FA National Ground Grading Handbook v18 and the Premier League Stadium Fund barrier criteria.

⚠ Always use our standard 2,250mm setback

Even where the FA minimum is 1,830mm, we recommend installing at 2,250mm across all grades. This provides a safety buffer, meets the Step 1 requirement outright, and means your barrier will never need moving if your club gains promotion. There should also be no gap left between the barrier and the spectator hardstanding.

Double Mesh Specification

Component Specification
Post dimensions 127 × 127mm PVCu, 1,800mm supplied length
Rail dimensions 2,449.2mm overall with a 38.1mm tenon at each end, 3 rails per bay
Bay centres 2,500mm
Mesh infill panel Double-layer welded steel mesh, white powder-coated, hole size 155 × 75mm
Barrier height 1.1m to the top rail, measured from the spectator side. Post stands 1,200mm above ground to the post top
Post embedment 600mm, set in concrete, with 150mm soil backfill at the surface
Post hole 300mm diameter × 750mm deep — 150mm concrete base, post set on it at 600mm embedment, concrete surround to 150mm below ground level
Gate modules Single 2,024mm overall (1,643mm clear) · Double 3,637mm overall (3,256mm clear)
Rail expansion gap 10–12mm between rail sections — allows thermal movement
Colour throughout Bright white PVCu — posts, rails and mesh infill panels
Hardware All gate hardware Grade 304 stainless steel — will not corrode
Full bay of white PVCu double mesh fence showing post cap, three rails and mesh infill from top to bottom

Gate Options

Recommended Gate Configuration for Any Pitch

We recommend as standard: 2 × 3.0m double gates for machinery access (tractor, line marker, maintenance and emergency vehicles) and 2 × 1.5m single gates for pedestrian access (players, match officials, spectators). The FA and the Premier League Stadium Fund both require provision for player, match official, maintenance and emergency vehicle access. Gate positions and quantities can be customised to your ground layout.

White PVCu double machinery gate with welded mesh infill and stainless steel hardware, set into a pitch perimeter fence

3.0m double machinery gate with double welded mesh infill and stainless steel hardware.

Gate Type Specification
Single gate (pedestrian) 1.5m nominal — 2,024mm module, 1,643mm clear opening. Pre-assembled, double steel lattice infill, white PVCu
Double gate (machinery) 3.0m nominal — 3,637mm module, 3,256mm clear opening. Pre-assembled double panel kit, double steel lattice infill, white PVCu
Gate posts 127 × 127mm with aluminium reinforcement insert for rigidity
Hinges Grade 304 stainless steel, 3.5" — non-self-closing standard; self-closing available on request
Latch Grade 304 stainless steel, 3" single latch — will not rust
Drop bolt 24" Grade 304 stainless steel — secures double gate in open or closed position

Independent Test Certifications

SGS Certified

UV Resistance

PVCu coating maintains colour and structural integrity under prolonged UV exposure — independently tested by SGS.

SGS Certified

High Temperature Performance

No deformation or failure at high temperatures. Confirmed performance across UK summer ground conditions.

SGS Certified

Low Temperature Performance

No cracking or brittleness at low temperatures. Year-round UK durability confirmed.

SGS Certified

Factory Quality Audit

Manufacturing facility independently audited and certified. Product manufactured under controlled, consistent quality conditions.

15-Year Warranty

Product Warranty

Full 15-year warranty — one of the longest available in the sector. Valid when installed using genuine Norvale Sport components.

Meets FA Criteria

FA Ground Grading Compliant

Norvale Double Mesh is specified to the FA Stadium Accreditation criteria for pitch perimeter barriers at Steps 1–4, meeting the infilled barrier requirement and the 1.1m barrier height.

Football Club Tier Guide — FA Requirements by Step

Sourced from the FA's National Ground Grading Handbook (v18), the 2026/27 Stadium Accreditation Criteria and the official NLS Step 7 Minimum Requirements document. Every club must meet the requirements for their current step and be mindful of what will be required upon promotion.

How the FA Pyramid Works

The Football Association's National League System (NLS) runs from Step 1 (National League) to Step 6. Step 7 is the NLS Feeder/Regional league level. Below that are county and district leagues. Clubs at every level should understand which requirements apply to them now — and what will be required if they gain promotion.

FA Step Grade Leagues (Official) Setback Infill FA Minimum Barrier Our Recommendation
Step 1 Grade A See league directory below Min 2,250mm
Ideal 2,750mm
REQUIRED Permanent infilled barrier, 1.1m high. Ball must not pass through or under. Hi-vis plastic and solid brick, breeze block or concrete are not accepted. Norvale Double Mesh
Step 2 Grade B See league directory below Min 1,830mm REQUIRED Permanent infilled barrier, 1.1m high. Solid brick, breeze block and concrete not accepted. Norvale Double Mesh
Step 3 Grade C See league directory below Min 1,830mm REQUIRED Permanent infilled barrier, 1.1m high. Solid brick, breeze block and concrete not accepted. Norvale Double Mesh
Step 4 Grade D See league directory below Min 1,830mm REQUIRED Permanent infilled barrier, 1.1m high. Solid brick, breeze block and concrete not accepted. Norvale Double Mesh
Step 5 Grade E See league directory below Min 1,830mm Strongly recommended Permanent fixed barrier, 1.1m high. Infill not explicitly required for existing grounds but strongly advised. Solid brick, breeze block and concrete not accepted. Norvale Double Mesh (future-proofs for Steps 1–4)
Step 6 Grade F See league directory below Min 1,830mm Strongly recommended Permanent fixed barrier, 1.1m high. Infill not explicitly required for existing grounds. Solid brick, breeze block and concrete not accepted. Norvale Single Mesh as minimum; double mesh recommended
Step 7 Grade G / H See league directory below Min 1,830mm
Ideally 2,000mm
Optional Post & rope is the minimum. Permanent fixed barrier ideally 1.1m high. Advertising boards acceptable as infill at Grade H. Norvale Single Mesh or Post & Rail
Grassroots Below Grade H See league directory below Recommended Optional No formal requirement. Boundary to pitch area recommended. Post & Rail or single mesh
Hi-Vis Fencing is Not Accepted at Steps 1–4

The FA's Stadium Accreditation Criteria state that plastic multi-purpose hi-vis fencing is not considered suitable as infill. If your club is at Steps 1–4 and currently uses temporary hi-vis fencing, it must be replaced before your next ground grading inspection.

Solid brick, breeze block and concrete barriers are prohibited

The FA's 2026/27 Stadium Accreditation Criteria prohibit solid brick, breeze block and concrete pitch perimeter barriers at Steps 1–6 of the men's National League System and Tiers 3–4 of the Women's National League. Around 900 clubs are affected, and approximately 160 have been contacted directly by the FA. Where removal or protection of such a barrier is required, the Premier League Stadium Fund will contribute up to 100% of the cost. See the funding guide.

League Directory — FA Steps & Official Leagues

Use this directory to identify which FA Step your club plays at and which specification applies.

FA Step Grade Official Leagues No. of Divisions Barrier Required
Step 1 Grade A National League 1 Double Mesh
Step 2 Grade B National League North & National League South 2 Double Mesh
Step 3 Grade C Northern Premier League Premier Division | Isthmian League Premier Division | Southern League Premier Division Central | Southern League Premier Division South 4 Double Mesh
Step 4 Grade D Northern Premier League Division One East | Northern Premier League Division One West | Isthmian League Division One North | Isthmian League Division One South | Southern League Division One Central | Southern League Division One South 6 Double Mesh
Step 5 Grade E Step 5 regional premier divisions — including Northern Counties East, United Counties, Midland, North West Counties, Combined Counties, Hellenic, Western and other regional Premier Leagues (10 divisions nationally) 10 Double Mesh
recommended
Step 6 Grade F Step 6 regional Division One leagues — the Division One tiers of the North West Counties, Northern Counties East, Midland, United Counties, Hellenic, Western and Combined Counties Leagues, plus other regional feeder divisions (17+ divisions nationally) 17+ Single Mesh
minimum
Step 7 Grade G/H County Senior & NLS Feeder Leagues — the top divisions of each County FA league, e.g. West Riding County Amateur, Manchester, Lancashire Amateur and Cheshire Leagues (50+ divisions across all 47 County FAs) 50+ Post & Rail
or Single Mesh
Grassroots Below H District leagues, Sunday leagues, county FA junior leagues 100s Post & Rail

Why install double mesh at Steps 5–7?

Future-proofing for promotionIf your club gains promotion to Steps 1–4, an infilled barrier is required. Installing double mesh now means you'll never need to replace it.
Funding fitThe Premier League Stadium Fund's barrier criteria are written around permanent, infilled barriers in uPVC or galvanised steel — a specification that already meets them is a simpler application.
Ball retention & safetyThe mesh infill keeps the ball in play and protects spectators and officials, regardless of what your league formally requires.
Professional appearanceDouble mesh presents a significantly more professional ground aesthetic — which matters for sponsorship, attracting players, and club image.

Pricing by FA Tier — Per Linear Metre

All prices shown ex VAT. Prices are per linear metre of fencing run. Based on a standard 11-a-side pitch (105m × 68m) with the barrier positioned at 2,250mm setback — giving a total fenced perimeter of approximately 350 metres.

How Perimeter Length is Calculated

Standard pitch: 105m × 68m. Barrier at 2,250mm outside all four sides: (105 + 4.5) × 2 + (68 + 4.5) × 2 = 364 metres, which we round to approximately 350 metres allowing for gate openings. Your pitch may vary — use the calculator below for your exact figure.

Gates and delivery are itemised separately

We recommend 2 × 3.0m double gates (machinery and emergency vehicle access) and 2 × 1.5m single gates (pedestrian access) as standard with any full pitch installation. Single gate £500 ex VAT, double gate £1,000 ex VAT. Delivery is £500 flat ex VAT with Moffett off-load. All three are shown as separate lines on your quote.

FA Step Barrier Specification Est. Perimeter Supply Only
per linear metre ex VAT
Install
per linear metre ex VAT
Supply & Install
per linear metre ex VAT
Step 1National League Double Mesh — full spec ~350m £59.00 £32.00 £91.00
Step 2NL North & NL South Double Mesh — full spec ~350m £59.00 £32.00 £91.00
Step 3NPL / Isthmian / Southern Premier Double Mesh — full spec ~350m £59.00 £32.00 £91.00
Step 4NPL / Isthmian / Southern Div 1 Double Mesh — full spec ~350m £59.00 £32.00 £91.00
Step 5Grade E Leagues Double Mesh
(recommended)
or Single Mesh
~350m £59.00
Single mesh £54.00
£32.00
Single mesh £30.00
£91.00
Single mesh £84.00
Step 6Grade F Leagues Single Mesh
(minimum)
or Double Mesh
~350m £54.00 £30.00 £84.00
Step 7County / NLS Feeder Leagues Post & Rail
or Single Mesh
~350m £49.00
Single mesh £54.00
£28.00
Single mesh £30.00
£77.00
Single mesh £84.00
GrassrootsDistrict / Sunday Leagues Post & Rail Varies £49.00 £28.00 £77.00

All prices are ex VAT and exclude gates and delivery, which are itemised separately. Final project pricing is based on your exact pitch dimensions, ground conditions, number of gates and chosen service option. Installation pricing applies UK-wide. Use the calculator below or request a detailed quote.

Supply-only pricing sits below Duralock's reseller trade price of £59.80/m and 13.7% below their retail list price of £68.34/m.

Calculate Your Pitch Perimeter

Enter your pitch dimensions for an instant indicative material quantity. The barrier is calculated at 2,250mm setback from the pitch edge.

Fenced perimeter (m)
Est. posts required
Est. mesh panels

Indicative quantities — post count based on 2,500mm bay centres. Contact us for exact specification and pricing.

Installation Guide

The system is designed to be installed by any competent, organised team. Every supply-only order includes a full printed installation guide with step-by-step instructions and diagrams. See also our full installation guide.

Safety First

Installation should only be carried out by skilled, competent personnel. Wear PPE including protective gloves and appropriate footwear throughout. Use only genuine Norvale Sport components — substituting third-party parts will void the warranty. If in doubt, choose our supply & install service.

Bay centres — 2,500mm

Posts are installed at 2,500mm centres, governed by the rail length of 2,449.2mm plus a 38.1mm tenon at each end. Contact our team before ordering if you need to confirm spacing for your specific ground conditions or layout.

Standard pitch layout diagram showing the playing area, 2,250mm setback to the fence line, and single and double gate positions
  1. Site Survey & Mark-Out

    Establish your fence line at a minimum of 2,250mm from the edge of the playing area on all four sides. Use string lines and stakes to mark the full perimeter. Mark post positions at 2,500mm centres along the line. Identify and mark gate positions — we recommend one double gate and one single gate on each accessible side as a minimum.

  2. Dig Post Holes

    Dig a 300mm diameter hole at each marked post position to a depth of 750mm. An auger or mechanical post hole borer is strongly recommended and will significantly reduce labour time, particularly on large installs and on compacted or clay ground.

  3. Set Posts in Concrete

    Place the post in the hole and check it is perfectly vertical using a plumb line or spirit level. Lay a 150mm concrete base in the bottom of the hole and set the post on it. Posts are supplied at 1,800mm and sit at 600mm embedment, leaving 1,200mm above ground to the post top and a barrier height of 1.1m to the top rail. Fill the concrete surround to 150mm below ground level — do not fill to the top. That remaining 150mm is backfilled with soil once the concrete has cured, giving a clean, natural grass finish at the base of each post. Allow a minimum of 24 hours curing time before fitting rails or panels. Do not proceed while concrete is wet.

  4. Install Rails

    With all posts set and concrete fully cured, slide the rails into the mortise holes in each post — 3 rails per bay. Each rail is 2,449.2mm overall with a 38.1mm tenon at each end; engage to the full tenon depth. Leave a 10–12mm thermal expansion gap between rail sections at each post to allow for movement in hot and cold weather. Work systematically around the full perimeter.

  5. Install Mesh Panels

    Mesh panels are supplied separately. Each panel slots between the rails using the pre-drilled holes in the rails — the mesh clips into position quickly without additional fixings or specialist tools. Work bay by bay around the full perimeter.

  6. Fit Gates

    Gate posts are installed using the same concrete method as fence posts. For additional rigidity and load-bearing strength, gate posts are doubled up — two posts set side by side at each gate hinge and latch position. Allow 2,024mm for a single gate module and 3,637mm for a double. Fit hinges, latches and drop bolts following the installation guide. All hardware is Grade 304 stainless steel. Check all gates open, close, latch and bolt correctly before sign-off.

  7. Final Inspection & Sign-Off

    Walk the full perimeter. Check all rails are correctly seated with the correct 10–12mm expansion gap at each joint. Check all mesh panels are fully seated in the pre-drilled holes with no loose sections. Check all gates function correctly. Measure the setback from the playing area on all four sides, and confirm there is no gap between the barrier and the spectator hardstanding, before submitting for any ground grading or inspection.

Cross-section diagram of a white PVCu fence post set in concrete, showing hole depth, soil backfill and concrete layers

Post foundation cross-section — 300mm diameter hole, 750mm deep. Post at 600mm embedment on a 150mm concrete base, with 150mm soil backfill at the surface.

Tools Required

Required Auger / post hole borer
Required Spade & cement mixer
Required Measuring tape (50m+)
Required Plumb line & spirit level
Required String line & stakes
Required Hand saw / mitre saw
Required Concrete & water supply
Required Screwdriver / cordless drill
Required Protective gloves & PPE
Advised Wheelbarrow
Advised Safety boots
Advised Knee pads (mesh fitting)

A full installation guide with detailed graphics is available from our installation guide page. All supply-only orders include a printed guide.

Test Reports & Certifications

Every performance claim we make is backed by independent testing carried out by SGS — the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. All reports are available to download.

SGS Tested

UV Resistance Test Report

PVCu coating maintains colour stability and structural integrity under prolonged UV exposure. Tested across the full range of UK outdoor weather conditions.

Download PDF →
SGS Tested

High Temperature Test Report

No deformation, material failure or dimensional change at high temperatures. Ensures the system performs in summer conditions.

Download PDF →
SGS Tested

Low Temperature Test Report

No cracking, brittleness or failure at low temperatures. Confirms year-round durability for UK outdoor installations.

Download PDF →
SGS Certified

Factory Quality Audit

Manufacturing facility independently audited and certified by SGS. Product manufactured under controlled, consistent quality conditions for every order.

Download PDF →
15-Year Warranty

Product Warranty

Full 15-year product warranty — one of the longest available in the sector. Covers manufacturing defects and material failure when installed using genuine Norvale Sport components.

Download PDF →
Meets FA Criteria

FA Ground Grading Compliance

Norvale Double Mesh is specified to the FA Stadium Accreditation criteria for pitch perimeter barriers at Steps 1–4 — meeting the infilled barrier requirement and the 1.1m barrier height.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything clubs ask about pitch perimeter fencing. Can't find your answer? Call us on 01282 526428.

How far from the pitch does the barrier need to be?

It depends on your FA step. At Step 1 (National League): minimum 2,250mm, ideally 2,750mm. At Steps 2–7: minimum 1,830mm. Note that where the Premier League Stadium Fund is paying for a new barrier at Grade 1, it must be set at 2.75m. We recommend a standard 2,250mm setback across all tiers — this meets the Step 1 requirement outright and future-proofs any club for promotion. Source: FA National Ground Grading Handbook v18.

What barrier height does the FA require?

The FA specifies the pitch perimeter barrier should ideally be 1.1 metres high as measured from the spectator side, across all grades A–H. Our system measures 1.1m to the top of the top rail, meeting this. The post itself stands 1,200mm above ground, with the cap sitting proud of the barrier line. Where a barrier exceeds 1.1m, the maximum depth of standing behind it is limited to 1.5 metres for crowd safety reasons.

Does my barrier need to have mesh infill?

It depends on your step. At Steps 1–4 an infilled barrier is required — it must prevent the ball passing through or under it, and hi-vis plastic is not accepted as infill. At Steps 5–6 infill is strongly recommended but not explicitly required for existing grounds. At Step 7 post and rope is the minimum, but a permanent infilled barrier is strongly advised for any club with promotion aspirations. For any new-build installation at any grade, the FA recommends purpose-designed barriers with integrated infill panels made from uPVC or coated metal.

Does the FA require PVC?

No. The FA prohibits solid brick, breeze block and concrete pitch perimeter barriers — it does not mandate any particular replacement material. The Premier League Stadium Fund names uPVC or galvanised steel as the accepted materials for new barriers. We supply uPVC because of how it behaves when a player runs into it at speed, not because a rule requires it.

What are the three systems?

Norvale Double Mesh — double-layer welded mesh infill, meets the infilled barrier requirement at FA Steps 1–4 and recommended for all steps. Norvale Single Mesh — single-layer mesh infill, meets the FA permanent barrier requirement at Steps 5–7. Norvale Post & Rail — three-rail system with no mesh, meets the Step 7 minimum and suits grassroots clubs. All three are available supply only or as a fully managed supply & install, nationwide.

Can we install the barrier ourselves?

Yes — the supply-only option is designed for clubs with a competent groundsman or capable volunteer team. No specialist equipment or welding skills are required. Every supply-only order includes a full printed installation guide, and our team are available by phone throughout your installation.

Do you install everywhere in the UK?

Yes. Our supply & install service covers the whole of the UK through our vetted contractor network. Supply-only orders deliver nationwide, with delivery itemised separately on every quote.

Is grant funding available for a pitch perimeter barrier?

For clubs at Steps 1–6 of the men's National League System and Tiers 1–4 of the Women's Football Pyramid, the Premier League Stadium Fund contributes 70% of the cost of a new barrier, rising to up to 100% where an existing solid brick, breeze block or concrete barrier has to be removed or protected. There is no preferred supplier list. The Football Foundation does not fund pitch perimeter barriers. At Step 7 and below there is no national grant route. See our full Funding Guide.

What warranty does the product carry?

A 15-year product warranty — one of the longest available in the sector. It covers manufacturing defects and material failure, and is valid when the system is installed using genuine Norvale Sport components throughout.

Do we need planning permission?

At 1.1m height, planning permission is generally not required in England under permitted development rights. Always confirm with your local planning authority before installation, and keep the written confirmation — the Premier League Stadium Fund requires evidence that planning permission, where required, is in place before approving an application.

What gates do you recommend?

For any full pitch installation we recommend as standard: 2 × 3.0m double gates for machinery and emergency vehicle access and 2 × 1.5m single gates for pedestrian access. The FA and the Premier League Stadium Fund both require provision for player, match official, maintenance and emergency vehicle access. Single gate £500 ex VAT, double gate £1,000 ex VAT. Quantities and positions can be customised to your ground layout and we'll advise on this as part of your free quote.

Funding Your Pitch Perimeter Barrier

Budget is the most common barrier to installing a compliant pitch perimeter barrier — but there is a dedicated national grant route, and most clubs are looking at the wrong one. Here is the position as it stands.

The Football Foundation does not fund pitch perimeter barriers

Pitch perimeter barriers are on the Football Foundation's explicit "cannot fund" list, and clubs at NLS Steps 1–6 or Women's Tiers 1–4 cannot apply to the Foundation at all. The Foundation's fencing grant is real, but it covers boundary and security fencing at non-NLS sites — a different thing to the barrier around your playing area. The route for a pitch perimeter barrier is the Premier League Stadium Fund.

Removing or protecting a solid wall

Up to 100%

Where a solid barrier must be removed or protected

The FA's 2026/27 Stadium Accreditation Criteria prohibit solid brick, breeze block and concrete pitch perimeter barriers at Steps 1–6 and Women's Tiers 3–4. Where a club is required to remove or protect one, the Fund will contribute up to the full cost.

  • Around 900 clubs are affected by the criteria change
  • Approximately 160 have been contacted directly by the FA
  • Covers the replacement barrier as well as the removal works
  • Photograph the existing wall and be specific about it in your application
Check Your Eligibility →
Step 7 and below — the honest position

The Premier League Stadium Fund does not fund work to meet Grade 7. Combined with the Football Foundation exclusion, a club at Step 7 or below has no national grant route for a pitch perimeter barrier. County FA capital funds and local authority schemes are the remaining options, and your County FA facilities officer is the right first call. Some clubs phase the work one side of the ground per season instead.

Cumulative caps per five-year period

Each club has a ceiling on what it can draw from the Fund across a rolling five-year period: Step 1 £400k · Step 2 £250k · Steps 3–4 £150k · Steps 5–6 £100k · Women's Tier 1 £750k · Tier 2 £400k · Tier 3 £150k · Tier 4 £100k. A full perimeter barrier sits inside all of these, but check what headroom you have if you have already drawn on the Fund for floodlights, a stand or changing rooms.

Grant Application — Step by Step

  1. Confirm which level you play at

    Eligibility runs to Steps 1–6 of the men's National League System, Tiers 1–4 of the Women's Football Pyramid, and clubs promoted into the EFL. If you are at Step 7 or below, speak to your County FA about capital funding — the national route is not open to you for this work.

  2. Establish whether you are removing a solid barrier

    This determines your contribution rate and is the most valuable thing to settle early. A club replacing a concrete or brick wall may be looking at up to 100% rather than 70%. Photograph what you have.

  3. Contact your PLSF Technical Manager

    Clubs contact their PLSF Technical Manager, or the Fund's technical team, before specifying the work. They will confirm the criteria that apply to your grade and flag anything about your ground that needs resolving first.

  4. Get a specification & quote from us

    The Fund requires a specification showing total perimeter length, barrier height, construction type, material, number and type of gates, and total cost. We provide the specification, a marked-up site plan and a schedule of works free of charge, within 24 hours. To be clear about our role: we provide the paperwork your application needs — we do not secure funding and have no influence over the decision.

  5. Confirm planning permission

    At 1.1m height planning permission is generally not required, but always confirm with your local planning authority in writing and keep that confirmation on file for the application.

  6. Submit, then order only on written approval

    Apply through the Premier League Stadium Fund. Once approved you will receive a grant offer confirming the amount and conditions. Place your order at that point and not before — retrospective applications are not accepted and work carried out before approval will not be paid for.

We'll provide the specification your application needs

Specification sheet, drawings, measurements, schedule of works and cost breakdown for your Premier League Stadium Fund application — free with any enquiry. Contact us and we'll have everything with you within 24 hours. For the full funding guide, see how to fund your pitch perimeter fence.

Get a Free Quote

Tell us about your club and we'll provide a detailed, no-obligation quote within 24 hours — along with the specification documents your grant application needs.

Call Us

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01282 526428

Email Us

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info@theoutdoorlook.co.uk

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