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JimB23 (Virginia)
Posts: 4
Posted:
We need to locate locks for our tennis courts. We attempted to add a keypad lock to the gate, but the gates have enough space in them that someone can easily reach their arm up and open them from the inside. I'd like to fine a chain with a combination lock that is permanently attached to the chain and can't be removed. Does anyone know of this type of product or some other simple solution?
MelissaP1 (Alabama)
Posts: 13,836
Posted:
I would ask a locksmith company. They may have a good solution. I wouldn't do the chain locks like you do with bicycles. They are EXTREMELY easy to break into. (Even I can do it). A good combo lock can cost over $100 but are worth it. There are special locks out there that I would consult a proffessional about installing.

Former HOA President
LarryB13 (Arizona)
Posts: 4,099
Posted:
Avoid any kind of lock that prevents people from leaving, even if they are trespassers. Generally, you cannot detain a person unless you intend to arrest him and what you can arrest a person for may be limited by state statutes.

Keeping a person inside could subject your HOA to civil damages. For example: granny goes looking for her cat late at night and thinks she sees the cat on the tennis court. She goes in to get the cat. Someone else locks the gate with her inside. She cannot get out, has a heart attack, and dies. Remote, yes, but possible. The law does not permit you to impose a death penalty for trespassing on the tennis court.

LawrenceC1 (Georgia)
Posts: 480
Posted:
Jim,

We had a fence company install push-button locks on our tennis court gates, and as part of the installation they welded a metal plate around the keypad so that no one could reach around and open the gate without entering the code.

Because, like other posters have written, there must be a handle to open the gate from the inside that doesn't need a key or combination.
JayP3 (Florida)
Posts: 154
Posted:
Having free access to exit once inside a fenced-in yet otherwise open space (no roof/ceiling/etc.) such as around a pool & patio deck is not mandatory nationwide. Our gate is key access both ways. If you have a key to get in you have one to exit.
PeterD3 (Florida)
Posts: 708
Posted:
Combinations can be shared to those whom you may not wish. Changing combos and or locks frequently can be a logistics issue.

Best to have a lock affixed to the gate fence as previuosly mentioned. A high quality type that the key can't be copied at Home Depot etc.

If the fence can be easily scaled then not having it lock from the inside too is just a waste of money. One jumps and all are easily allowed in.

Like Pete mentioned ours also locks from the inside and the problem is nearly eliminated.

There are pros/cons to any approach (nothing is perfect).
PeterD3 (Florida)
Posts: 708
Posted:
Sorry Jay I mean't you not me (I no narcissist)
JayP3 (Florida)
Posts: 154
Posted:
No problem. If I may ask, where in Fla. are you?

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