Bergenfield vs Englewood
How do retaining walls rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Englewood, NJ?
Englewood has fewer restrictions than Bergenfield.
Bergenfield, NJ
Bergen County
Bergenfield defines retaining walls and requires a Construction Official permit, plus an NJDEP permit, for any retaining wall within 20 feet of a stream, brook, or watercourse centerline.
View full Bergenfield rules →Englewood, NJ
Bergen County
Englewood treats retaining walls under fence height limits and requires detailed engineering submittals for site plan review.
View full Englewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bergenfield | Englewood |
|---|---|---|
| Stream setback | 20 feet from centerline | - |
| Borough permit | Construction Official | - |
| State permit | NJDEP required | - |
| Application copies | Triplicate, owner-signed | - |
| Residential height cap | - | 6.5 feet |
| Park/stadium cap | - | 8 feet |
| Site plan submittal | - | Profiles and cross sections |
| Required calculations | - | Structural design |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bergenfield FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small retaining wall in my yard?
Yes, applications must be filed in triplicate with the Construction Official. Walls within 20 feet of a stream centerline also require a New Jersey DEP permit before construction.
What materials are prohibited on retaining walls?
Bergenfield bans barbed wire, spines, chipped glass, or similar devices on any retaining wall. The wall must also conform to the Borough's drainage and grade-change definitions.
Englewood FAQ
Are retaining walls regulated like fences in Englewood?
Yes. Englewood applies the same 6.5-foot height limit to retaining walls in one-family residence districts as to fences.
What plans does Englewood require for retaining walls?
Site plan submittals must include height, elevations, materials, profiles, cross sections, plantings, safety barriers, and structural design calculations.
Compare other topics
See how Bergenfield and Englewood compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool