RV Gates and Side-Yard Access — Sizing, Code, and Costs
If you ever need to bring an RV, boat, or full-sized equipment into the back, the gate spec is non-negotiable. Here's what to plan before you build anything in the side yard.
Minimum widths that actually fit equipment
10 ft clear opening fits a mid-size RV, most boats, and tractor-with-trailer. 12 ft clear is the AE default — handles a full-size 5th wheel, our excavators, and concrete trucks. Under 9 ft means we can't get equipment to the back without crane-lifting over the house.
Setback and side-yard width
Most AZ cities require 5 ft minimum side yard. RV pads need a 12 ft drive aisle to a gate, so a 12-ft-wide side yard works only if the pad isn't widened. Mark the post locations before pouring any concrete in the side yard.
Gate types
Powder-coated wrought iron is the standard ($3,500–$9,500 installed for a 12-ft double swing). Cantilever rolling gates ($6,000–$15,000) when ground slope or wind prevents swinging. Wood-and-iron hybrid for HOAs that require an opaque face.
Don't forget
Power for opener (Liftmaster RSL or equivalent). Conduit under the future driveway BEFORE pouring concrete. Strike post anchored in a concrete pier, not surface-mounted. Drop rod for the inactive leaf. Backup keypad outside HOA-mandated setback line.
