Bergenfield vs Paramus
How do retaining walls rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Paramus 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 →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus regulates retaining walls by exposed height: walls under 4 feet need a zoning permit, while 4-foot and taller walls require a construction permit with engineering. Setbacks scale with wall height.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bergenfield | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Stream setback | 20 feet from centerline | - |
| Borough permit | Construction Official | - |
| State permit | NJDEP required | - |
| Application copies | Triplicate, owner-signed | - |
| Under 4 ft | - | Zoning permit |
| 4 ft or taller | - | Construction permit |
| Walls Up to 3 ft | - | 2 ft setback |
| Walls Over 3 ft | - | 5 ft setback |
| Wall plus Fence Max | - | 10 feet combined |
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.
Paramus FAQ
Do I need engineered drawings for a Paramus retaining wall?
Yes if the wall is 4 feet or taller measured from footing bottom to top, or if it supports a surcharge such as a driveway or pool. Smaller walls usually need only a zoning permit.
How close can a retaining wall sit to my Paramus property line?
Side and rear walls up to 3 feet of exposed height must be at least 2 feet from the line; walls over 3 feet exposed must be at least 5 feet from the side or rear lot line.
Compare other topics
See how Bergenfield and Paramus 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