Keepouts

Keepouts are designated spaces in which entry or occupation is restricted or prohibited to protect safety, privacy, or functionality. The term is used across industries to denote zones that must be kept clear of people, vehicles, or equipment. Keepouts can be temporary or permanent and are enforced through signage, barriers, access controls, or digital restrictions.

In physical safety and facilities, keepout zones mark hazards such as construction sites, chemical plants, electrical substations, or areas with moving machinery. In industrial settings, a keepout may be defined by a floor plan or safety regulations. Violating a keepout can carry penalties and risk.

In electronics and PCB design, a keepout region is a defined area where no copper, traces, vias, pads, or components may be placed. The keepout helps ensure clearance for mechanical fit, thermal management, or sensor operation, and is defined in CAD tools as a mechanical keepout or copper keepout.

In aviation and geospatial contexts, keepouts describe zones where flight or navigation is restricted, such as no-fly zones around airports, military installations, or sensitive installations. In maritime contexts, keepouts may refer to restricted zones around offshore platforms.

Implementation and standards vary by domain; there is no universal standard. Common practices include signage, physical barriers, access controls, and digital design rules that enforce keepout layers or restrictions. See also restricted area, no-go zone, and safety clearance.