A gate is the part of a Los Angeles fence that gets used every day, and it is where most fences fail first. We build walk gates, side-yard gates and driveway gates in wood, steel, aluminum and vinyl, and we fit swing and slide operators with keypads, remotes and safety sensors. On a level Valley driveway a swing gate is simple. On a hillside driveway that rises from the street, a swing gate may hit the pavement as it opens, so a sliding gate or an uphill-swing hinge is the better answer. We look at the grade before we recommend one.
Driveway gates also have to respect the street. A gate in the front yard is covered by the same city height limits as a fence, and it should not swing over the sidewalk. In the hills, fire crews need to get through, so ask us about access hardware that the fire department accepts for your street. A powered operator needs electrical work, and that part is permitted separately. We tell you up front which pieces need a permit.
Heat, dust and wind are hard on gates here. Wood gates dry out and drop at the latch side, so we frame them with a steel or braced frame and hang them on posts set deeper than the fence posts. Near the beach we use galvanized, stainless or aluminum parts so hinges do not seize with rust. If your gate is on a shared driveway or an easement, talk to the other owner before we build.
Gates & gate operators in Los Angeles: common questions
Do I need a permit for a driveway gate in Los Angeles?
It depends on height, location and whether it is powered. The city's front yard height limit applies to gates as well as fences, and a motorized operator involves electrical work. We check with LADBS for your address before quoting.
Swing or slide: which gate works on a sloped driveway?
Usually a sliding gate, or a swing gate hinged to open toward the downhill side. A gate that swings uphill needs clearance the slope often does not give. We measure the grade on site and show you what will work.
Can you add an opener to my existing gate?
Often yes, if the gate is square, the posts are solid and power can reach it. A sagging gate or a loose post has to be fixed first, because an operator will pull a weak gate apart.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We visit, measure and talk through options.
- Written quote: Clear pricing with material choices side by side.
- Permits & planning: We check local rules and help with permits before we dig.
- Install & clean-up: Our crew installs, cleans up and walks the finished fence with you.