I want to build a retaining wall on my residential property. What are the requirements and what is the process to get approval?

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The purpose of a retaining wall is to hold back soil, typically at the base of a slope. Approvals or permits from the Building and Safety Division and the Public Works/Engineering Department may also be required depending on wall height and site conditions.  In most cases, retaining walls that are not over three feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall do not require a building permit.  Refer to Development Code Chapter 22.20 and Section 22.22.080 (b)(7) for general height requirements for retaining walls.  

Contact the Planning Division for initial inquiries and more information by submitting online through the Planning inquiry form.


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1. How do I determine where my property lines are?
2. I want to build a freestanding privacy wall/fence on my residential property. What are the height limits and design standards? What is the process to get approval?
3. I want to build a retaining wall on my residential property. What are the requirements and what is the process to get approval?
4. I want to place a detached storage shed in my yard. What are the requirements and what is the process to get approval?
5. What is a setback?
6. I want to add a patio cover to my home. What are the requirements and what is the process to get approval?
7. Can I add onto my existing home? How big can the addition be?
8. I want to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on my property. What are the requirements and process?
9. What are the residential landscaping standards?
10. Where can I store my refuse and recycling containers?