Retaining Walls: Auburn vs Redmond
How do retaining walls rules compare between Auburn, WA and Redmond, WA?
Auburn has fewer restrictions than Redmond.
Auburn, WA
King County
Retaining walls over 4 feet from footing to top require a building permit and engineering in Auburn under IRC R105.2. Walls near Lea Hill and Lakeland steep slopes face critical area review.
View full Auburn rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from footing bottom to wall top) or supporting a surcharge require a building permit and engineered design in Redmond under IBC and RMC 15.06.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Trigger | Over 4 feet | Over 4 ft from footing |
| Engineering | Required over 4 ft | WA-licensed engineer |
| Critical Areas | Lea Hill, Lakeland steep slopes | - |
| Code | IRC R105.2 / ACC 16.10 | RMC 15.06 / IBC |
| Critical Area | - | Extra environmental review |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 3 foot retaining wall in Auburn?
Generally no, unless it supports a surcharge or sits in a critical area. Walls 4 feet or less that do not support fill above are permit-exempt under IRC R105.2.
Is engineering required for retaining walls in Auburn?
Yes, for any wall over 4 feet and for walls in steep-slope critical areas, engineered design stamped by a licensed Washington engineer is required.
Redmond FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 3-foot landscape wall?
Typically no, as long as it is not supporting a surcharge and is outside a critical area. Decorative stacked block under 3 feet is usually exempt.
What engineer do I need for a tall retaining wall?
A Washington-licensed civil or structural engineer must stamp plans for any wall over 4 feet from footing bottom to top of wall.
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