Pitch perimeter barriers are required around all pitches within the National League System and the Women’s Football Pyramid to help keep the ball in and keep spectators off the field of play.
Ahead of the 2026/27 season, The FA has updated its Stadium Accreditation criteria and confirmed that there must be a permanent fixed barrier, ideally 1.1 metres high as measured from the spectator side. This barrier must be of sound construction and free from all sharp edges, surrounding the pitch on all sides that may be occupied by spectators.
From the start of the 2026/27 season, solid brick, breeze block or concrete barriers are not permitted. Existing sold brick, breeze block or concrete barriers must, as soon as reasonably practicable, be removed or, if they cannot be removed (e.g. because they are retaining walls), covered with suitable protection.
If you're a club that does have a solid brick, breeze block or concrete barrier surrounding their pitch, please contact your Premier League Stadium Fund Technical Manager to discuss how you plan to either remove or protect the wall.
Additional dedicated funding has been made available by the Premier League Stadium Fund to support clubs in the National League System and Women’s Football Pyramid implement the changes.
Need some guidance?
You can contact our Technical team before applying if you require any guidance.
Additional guidance
Consideration needs to be given to including gates for player and match officials, access and maintenance and emergency vehicles.
New pitch perimeter barriers must be installed a minimum distance from the touch and goal lines of 1.83 metres. For clubs requiring Grade 1, the distance must be 2.25 (ideally 2.75) metres from the touch and goal line. When installed, there should be no gap left between the barrier and spectator hardstanding.
Grant funding
The Premier League Stadium Funding will typically contribute 70% towards the cost of new pitch perimeter barriers. This means your club will need to pay for 30% of the total project cost.
However, where the club is required to remove or protect a solid brick, breeze block or concrete barriers, a grant of up to 100% is available. Please speak to your Premier League Stadium Fund Technical Manager for further details, or email stadiumpower@stadiumpower.org.uk
Ready to apply?
To start your application, find out if your club is eligible first.