Quick Answer:
Our storm shelter installations typically require approximately 10 feet of width access, 14 feet of vertical clearance, and 20–25 feet of overhead clearance for crane operations. Sprague’s Backhoe can often set shelters over fences, but temporary fence panel removal may be required for equipment access depending on your property layout.
Installing a storm shelter is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your Oklahoma family. One of the most common questions we receive is:
“Will your equipment fit in my yard?”
Access planning is a normal part of the installation process — especially in neighborhoods throughout Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Yukon, Mustang, and surrounding communities.
Here’s exactly what to expect so installation day goes smoothly.
How Much Space Does the Crane Truck Need?
Our crane truck handles the heavy lifting for every installation. It delivers your storm shelter and uses precision crane operation to set it exactly where you want it.
Minimum Access Requirements for Our Equipment
- About 10 feet of width for straight-line access to the installation area
- About 14 feet of vertical clearance along the entire path, including under trees, carports, eaves, or HVAC units
- About 4-5 feet on each side for outrigger stabilization once positioned
- About 20-25 feet of overhead clearance above the truck for safe lifting
We lift your shelter directly off the back of our truck, not from the side. The outriggers extend automatically to stabilize the truck during lifting, so side clearance is essential.
Important: The crane truck setup does not support side-set installations. All shelters must be placed from the rear of the crane truck.
Can You Set a Shelter Over a Fence?
In many cases — yes.
If we can position the crane truck directly against your fence line and the shelter location is immediately on the other side, we can often lift and set the shelter over standard 6–8 foot residential fencing.
However, our crew may still need yard access for site preparation and leveling. If your gate opening is less than about 10 feet wide, you’ll typically need to remove 1-2 fence panels to provide the access required. We review access details during your initial consultation so there are no surprises on installation day.
Tree Clearance and Overhead Obstacles
Mature trees are common across Oklahoma — but proper trimming is essential for safe installation.
Our below ground and above ground storm shelter installations throughout Oklahoma require careful attention to overhead clearance for successful completion.
Why Clearance Matters
- Hydraulic protection: Tree limbs can snag or damage the hydraulic lines that power the crane
- Shelter integrity: Branches can scratch your new shelter or ventilation components
- Safety and efficiency: Clear access prevents delays
We require trimming branches to achieve about 14 feet of vertical clearance along access routes and about 25 feet of clearance over the installation area. This protects our equipment and prevents damage to your new shelter.
Gate Width Solutions
Many Oklahoma homes have standard gates that work for lawn equipment but aren’t wide enough for storm shelter installation equipment. Here’s how access typically breaks down:
| Gate Width | Equipment Access | Solution Required |
|---|---|---|
| About 10+ feet | Full access | No modifications needed |
| About 8-9 feet | Limited access | May work for smaller equipment |
| Under 8 feet | No access | Remove 1-2 fence panels |
Fence panel removal is typically straightforward and handled by the homeowner prior to installation.
We do not charge additional fees based solely on access challenges, but site modifications are the homeowner’s responsibility.
Success in Tight Spaces
Sprague’s Backhoe has successfully installed storm shelters in virtually every type of Oklahoma residential setting, from spacious rural properties to compact city lots in Oklahoma City’s neighborhoods.
In our experience, we’ve completed installations in backyards with as little as 12 feet between house and fence, properties with overhead power lines (with utility coordination), and locations requiring creative access solutions throughout Moore, Norman, and Bridge Creek.
Watch Our Crane in Action
Our Priority: Damage-Free Installation
We approach every property carefully and deliberately.
With over 20 years of industry experience in storm shelter installation across central Oklahoma, our goal is simple:
Safe equipment operation.
Accurate placement.
Minimal property disturbance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you charge extra for fence panel removal?
We do not provide fence panel removal services. It’s the homeowner’s responsibility to remove and reinstall fence panels as needed for equipment access. However, we don’t charge extra fees related to properties that require fence modifications.
Can you work around overhead power lines?
Yes, with proper utility coordination. Sometimes the utility company may need to temporarily disconnect lines for safe installation.
What if my yard doesn’t meet minimum requirements?
We work with challenging situations regularly and sometimes alternative locations within your property offer better access. However, if your property simply doesn’t have adequate space for our equipment, we may not be able to complete the installation. In those cases, we can suggest alternative contractors or installation methods that might work for your specific situation.
How far ahead should I trim trees or modify fencing?
Complete preparations at least one week before installation. This allows time for adjustments and ensures installation day goes smoothly.
Can weather affect access requirements?
Yes, wet conditions can make soft ground unsuitable for heavy equipment. We may reschedule during Oklahoma’s rainy seasons to prevent property damage.
Key Takeaways
Note: Access requirements can vary depending on the installer and equipment used. The dimensions listed here reflect what is needed for our installation requirements.
- Plan ahead: Our installations typically require about 10 feet width, 14 feet vertical clearance, and 20-25 feet overhead space
- Over-fence possible: We can often set shelters over fences, but may need yard access for preparation
- Tree trimming helps: Proper clearance protects equipment and prevents damage
- Gate modifications: Openings under about 10 feet typically require temporary fence panel removal
- Solutions exist: We’ve successfully installed shelters in challenging Oklahoma locations with proper planning
Ready to protect your Oklahoma family?
If you’re within approximately 60 miles of Blanchard, Oklahoma, we can review your property layout and confirm access requirements before installation. Call 405-600-4905 or request a free quote to begin planning your storm shelter installation. Preparation makes installation day smooth — and protection ready when it matters most.
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