Jul 22, 2026
Anti-Climb Fencing in Los Angeles: Installed Case Studies
See anti-climb fencing installed across Los Angeles — Venice alleys, Laurel Canyon hillsides, Hollywood stucco coping, Santa Monica glass. Real LA jobs.
Column
How to Install Anti-Climb Spikes: Step-by-Step Guide (Walls, Fences & Gates)
By Kojiro Otani 6 min read
TL;DR: Fit anti-climb spikes at a minimum height of 2 m (6.6 ft), in clearly visible locations, with warning signage — and always wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection, because the tips are intentionally sharp. Work from one end: mark the anchor centres through the fixing slots, then anchor each 500 mm (19.69") section at a minimum of three points — both end slots plus one or more middle slots — before joining the next section into the free end. This guide follows the official Otani Ninja Deterrent installation method.
Do anti-climb spikes need professional installation?
For a sound masonry wall with the right anchors and PPE, fitting anti-climb spikes is a manageable job for a competent DIYer. But two factors demand respect: the tips are intentionally sharp, and the work is usually done at height. If the run is long or high, the substrate is uncertain, or you are not comfortable working safely off a ladder or scaffold, use a qualified installer. Improper installation can cause serious injury, and the manufacturer is not liable for failure to follow the official instructions.
What you need before you begin
Tools and materials: safety goggles, heavy-duty cut-resistant gloves, tape measure, pencil, an impact driver or cordless drill, a concrete/masonry drill bit, and the correct concrete anchors or stainless-steel anchor bolts (with washers) sized for the section's 11 mm and 7.5 mm oval slots.
Before you start, confirm: local codes and permit requirements for spike/fence height; that the wall is structurally complete, fully cured and sound; that the top surface is flat, level and free of debris; the substrate (solid brick or concrete coping) so you can select the right anchor; that every section is undamaged (never fit a deformed unit); your property/boundary lines to avoid encroachment; and that you have safe access for work at height (scaffold or ladder) with the area below isolated.
Safety first — read before installing
- The tips are extremely sharp. Keep the tip covers on until each section is fixed, never touch the tips, and secure loose sleeves, hems and cuffs.
- Wear PPE (goggles and cut-resistant gloves) throughout, and work only in good light — poor lighting invites accidental contact.
- Work at height is a fall hazard: keep a stable posture, work from a safe position, and ensure the product cannot fall onto people or property below.
- Keep children, animals, vehicles and passers-by clear of the area, and never transport or handle the product with the tips exposed.
How to install anti-climb spikes step by step
- Set out the sections. Working from one end, lay out the 500 mm (19.69") sections along the top of the wall for continuous coverage, keeping the tip covers on. Establish a reference point and mark the section joints at 500 mm centres.
- Mark the anchor holes. Position each section and mark the anchor-hole centres through the fixing slots — both 11 mm oval end slots, plus the 7.5 mm middle slots you intend to use.
- Drill and clean the holes. Drill pilot holes at the marked centres, sized for your chosen anchor, then blow out all dust and debris so the anchors seat properly.
- Anchor each section at a minimum of three points. Set the anchors and fix each 500 mm section at at least three fixing points — both end (11 mm) slots plus one or more middle (7.5 mm) slots — adding more middle fixings on long or exposed spans. Use a washer under every head or nut, and fix the end that sits in close contact with the wall first, leaving the opposite end free for the next section.
- Join the next section. Insert the base plate of the next section into the free end, anchor the joint, and keep the line straight. Repeat along the wall.
- Finish and add signage. Complete the end sections, confirm every fixing is tight with no loose spans, and display appropriate warning signage.
What anchors should you use?
Select the fastener to suit the substrate, and use stainless-steel fixings outdoors for corrosion resistance — always with a washer under the head or nut:
- Expansion / wedge anchor: drill the wall hole to the anchor diameter, set the anchor, then tighten the nut or bolt.
- Masonry (concrete) screw: drill the pilot hole as specified by the screw manufacturer, then drive the screw directly into the hole.
On a metal fence or railing rather than masonry, fix into the top rail with appropriate corrosion-resistant fasteners, keeping the same principle of at least three fixings per section.
How high should anti-climb spikes be installed?
Install at a minimum height of 2 m (6.6 ft), beyond the reach of adults and children, in clearly visible locations, and display warning signage. This is both the manufacturer's requirement and the widely accepted rule for staying within liability rules. Keep the points off the public side of the boundary and check local height limits and permit requirements before you begin.
Are anti-climb spikes legal to install?
In most jurisdictions, yes — provided they are fitted responsibly: at least 2 m above ground, not overhanging or contacting a public footpath, and with a clear warning sign. Rules vary by locality, HOA and property type, so confirm local building codes, ordinances and your boundary lines before installation. Liability, not the spikes themselves, is what the law focuses on.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many fixing points does each spike section need?
Fix each 500 mm (19.69") section at a minimum of three points: both 11 mm oval end slots plus one or more 7.5 mm middle slots. Add further middle fixings on long or exposed spans. Use a washer under every fastener and confirm each fixing is fully tight with no loose sections.
What anchors are best for a brick or concrete wall?
Use an expansion/wedge anchor or a masonry (concrete) screw, in stainless steel for outdoor durability, sized to the 11 mm and 7.5 mm oval slots. Drill the pilot holes to the correct diameter, blow out the dust, set the anchor, and tighten with a washer under the head or nut.
Do I need to keep the tip covers on during installation?
Yes. Keep the protective tip covers on until each section is fixed in place — the tips are intentionally sharp and can cause serious injury. Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection throughout, and never handle the product with the tips exposed.
Can I install anti-climb spikes myself?
Yes, on a sound masonry wall with the correct anchors and PPE it is a manageable DIY task. For long runs, high walls, uncertain substrates, or professional/commercial sites, use a qualified installer to ensure secure fixing, straight alignment and compliance with local codes.
Do I need a warning sign?
Yes — display appropriate warning signage after installation. It is a manufacturer requirement, reduces the risk of an unintended-injury claim, and, combined with mounting at 2 m or above, keeps a residential installation on the right side of liability rules.
Sources
- Otani Ninja Deterrent — Products
- Based on the official Otani Ninja Deterrent Classic Black Steel Single installation manual (Rev. 0).
- Complete Guide to Wall and Fence Security Spikes
Written by
Kojiro OtaniFounder of Saitani-Ya Co., Ltd. and creator of the Ninja Deterrent™ brand. Drawing on Japan's tradition of shinobi-gaeshi, he designs and manufactures anti-climb security spikes that pair real deterrence with architectural beauty — writing from first-hand experience in their engineering, production, and real-world installation.
Column
Jul 12, 2026
Choosing the Best Anti-Climb Spikes: A Guide to Security, Aesthetics, and Durability
Explore anti-climb spikes for walls and fences. Compare types, materials, and aesthetics to find the best security solution, featuring premium options like Ninja Deterrent.
Jul 9, 2026
What Is Shinobi Gaeshi (忍び返し)? Meaning, History, and Modern Anti-Climb Spikes
Discover Shinobi Gaeshi (忍び返し), traditional Japanese anti-climb spikes. Learn its history, meaning, modern applications, and how Ninja Deterrent offers decorative security solutions.
Products
Full Custom
Need a bespoke solution?
Our standard series not quite right? We design and manufacture fully custom anti-climb systems tailored to your exact specifications — unique profiles, dimensions, materials, and finishes.
Custom blade profiles & dimensions
Any material: SUS304, brass, aluminum, galvanized steel
Color matching to your architecture
Volume pricing for large-scale projects
SPEC
Material SUS304 / AL5052
Tolerance ±0.1mm
Contact us
Questions?
For general inquiries about our products or consultation regarding installation, please contact us.
Book a meeting?
Schedule a free online consultation with our team. Pick a time that works for you — available slots are shown in your local time zone.