There is no universal standard height for railings. Since the summer of 2026, the current regulations have not specified a minimum height either.
It may sound as though the question “How high should the railing be?” has become impossible to answer. In practice, the opposite is true: when the regulations no longer specify a single figure, the height must be determined based on the location, how the space is used, and the potential consequences of a fall.
This article will help you choose an appropriate railing height in practice. If you’d rather read more about what the current regulations say, you can find that information in our guide on railing requirements .
Why the question has become harder to answer
The Swedish National Board of Housing, Building, and Planning’s new building regulations took effect on July 1, 2025. During a transition period, the older regulations in the BBR could still be used, but that option ended on July 1, 2026.
- Previous guidance 0.9 and 1.1 meters
- The older general guidelines specified specific heights for, among other things, stairs, landings, and balconies.
- Current Requirements The height is determined based on the risk
- The guardrail must be of a height that minimizes the risk of injury, taking into account the use of the surface and the potential height of a fall.
Read more in the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building, and Planning's guidelines on railings and handrails .
What You Should Keep in Mind
The table shows common heights used in practice. Consider them as guidelines, not as mandatory minimum dimensions.
| Situation | Typical height | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Balcony near ground level | 90 cm | Often more about security than requirements. |
| Elevated patio and terrace | 110 cm | The most common choice in practice. |
| Balcony in an apartment building | 110 cm | It is almost always used as a starting point. |
| Indoor Staircase | 90 cm | The grip and the position of the handrail are key factors. |
| Where children under the age of six are present | 110 cm or more | Here, too, openings and the risk of climbing must be assessed. |
| Steep slope or water below | More than 110 cm | It is the risk—not just the height of the fall—that matters. |
The last line is the most important one following the rule change. Previously, 110 centimeters was often considered the maximum standard height. Now, however, the height must correspond to the actual risk at the site.
For example, a balcony above a paved or steep slope has different implications than the same drop height above a flat lawn.
Where are you measuring from?
The railing height is measured from the finished floor to the top of the railing—not from the ground below.
- Measured fromthe bottom Railing height
- From the finished top surface of the patio or balcony floor to the top edge of the railing.
- Measured downward Drop height
- From the floor where the person is standing to the ground or the lower level below.
The patio deck is 130 centimeters above the ground
If you have chosen a railing that is to be 110 centimeters high, measure 110 centimeters from the top of the deck floor to the top of the railing. The 130 centimeters to the ground is the fall height and is used in the risk assessment—not as the starting point when measuring the railing.
Sloping terrain
When the ground slopes, the drop height varies along the railing. Therefore, take measurements at several points and use the most exposed section as a reference.
The 130-centimeter drop height determines the entire railing
The entire length of the railing should be the height required for the greatest drop, even if the ground is closer to the deck in other areas.
Keep the top edge straight. This creates a calmer and more cohesive look than if the railing's height tapers down toward the ground.
A height people sit on
The lowest railing heights can create a practical problem that goes beyond safety. A wide, flat crossbar at a low height can easily be perceived as a surface for sitting or leaning on.
In particular, a wide, flat crossbar can feel like a natural place to lean against or sit on.
Think about how the space will be used
- A low crossbar is positioned at a height that's comfortable to lean against.
- Tables, chairs, and other furniture near the railing can make the crossbar more accessible.
- If the railing serves as fall protection, its design should not encourage anyone to sit on it or climb on it.
The height of the railing should therefore be adjusted based on both the risk of falling and what will be on either side of the railing.
Is it allowed to build taller?
Yes. There is no general maximum height for railings. A taller railing can be a good choice when you want extra clearance or better wind protection.
A few extra centimeters affect both the sense of security, the view, and how open the balcony feels.
- 120 cm Extra margin
- A common choice for areas where small children play or where you want a slightly higher level of protection. With glass, the height also provides better wind protection without blocking the view.
- Over 130 cm More like a wall
- At this height, the railing often begins to feel more enclosing. It can block the view when seated and alter the open character of the balcony.
Do you need both height and an unobstructed view? A glass railing lets light through and preserves the view better than a solid panel.
Glazed patio or balcony
In some cases, a glass enclosure can serve as fall protection, but that depends on how the entire solution is designed.
Fixed glass panels may be included in the fall protection system
If the glazing is permanently installed and properly sized, it can, in certain projects, meet all or part of the need for fall protection.
The railing and the glass enclosure cannot be viewed separately
- Glass Placement and Safety
- Fixed and openable sections
- Drop height outside the glazing
- How the space should be used
Glazing does not mean that the railing can be removed
The railing may still be needed or may need to retain its full height. This determination depends on the entire structure and the conditions at the site.
How to Choose—Step by Step
Start by considering the drop height and the site conditions. Then you can choose a railing height that provides the right safety margin without making the railing unnecessarily high.
- Measure the drop height at several points along the entire length of the railing, especially if the ground slopes or changes level.
- Use the greatest drop height as a basis when selecting the height for the entire railing.
- Assess what is below. Grass, paving, water, and a steep slope all have different consequences even at the same drop height.
- Determine whether children under the age of six can be present at the site without constant supervision and whether the railing therefore requires a greater safety margin.
- Consider adding 5–10 centimeters. A few extra centimeters often have less of an impact on the overall look than you might think, but can provide a more long-term solution.
- Measure the railing height from the finished floor to the top of the railing, never from the ground below.
- Check with the municipality to confirm the solution before finalizing the measurements and products if the railing is to be combined with a glass enclosure.
Not sure what height is right for your balcony?
Tell us the drop height, what’s below, and whether children are present there, and our customer service team will help you determine an appropriate height. All railings are custom-made in Ängelholm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Railing Height
Here you'll find brief answers about standard height, measurement, sloping ground, and what applies following the rule change.
How high should a railing be?
The regulations do not specify a minimum height as of 2026. Industry practice is 90 centimeters for low fall heights and 110 centimeters in other cases.
From what point is the height measured?
From the finished floor to the top of the railing. Not from the ground below.
What are the rules for sloping terrain?
The greatest drop along the section determines the height of the entire railing. It also looks better with a continuous top edge.
Can I build higher than is customary?
Yes, there's no ceiling. However, once you get above about 130 centimeters, the railing starts to feel confining.
Is there a standard height?
No. It never has, and there is currently no specified minimum size either.
Do I need to raise my old railing?
No, not because the rules have changed. When changes are made, the current requirements apply to the modified part, but they may be adjusted if safety can still be ensured.
Does glazing count as fall protection?
Sometimes. It's up to the municipality to decide, so ask before you start building.
