Retaining Walls: Bolingbrook vs Joliet
How do retaining walls rules compare between Bolingbrook, IL and Joliet, IL?
Bolingbrook and Joliet have similar restriction levels.
Bolingbrook, IL
Will County
Will County and its municipalities require building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing. Walls with surcharge (driveway, slope, structure above) require engineered plans from an Illinois licensed PE regardless of height.
View full Bolingbrook rules →Joliet, IL
Will County
Joliet regulates retaining walls through the adopted International Building Code (2015) under Section 8-175. Building permits are required for retaining walls that meet height thresholds. Engineering review is required for walls exceeding 4 feet in height.
View full Joliet rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bolingbrook | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Free | Under 4 feet, no surcharge | - |
| PE Required | Over 4 ft or with surcharge | - |
| Setback | 3 to 5 feet typical | - |
| Drainage | Weep holes, drain tile required | - |
| Stormwater | Will County SMO applies | - |
| Building Code | - | IBC 2015 (Sec. 8-175) |
| Permit | - | Required |
| Engineering | - | Required if >4 ft retained |
| Review Fee | - | Sec. 8-60 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bolingbrook FAQ
Does a 3-foot retaining wall need a permit in Will County?
Generally no under the 2018 IRC if there is no surcharge load above. If a driveway, slope, structure, or pool is above the wall, an engineered design and permit are required regardless of height.
Who can stamp retaining wall plans in Illinois?
Only a licensed Illinois Professional Engineer (PE) under 225 ILCS 325. The PE seal must be current and the design must show soil bearing, drainage, and reinforcement.
Joliet FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Joliet?
Yes. Building permits are required for retaining walls. Walls over 4 feet in retained height generally require professional engineering design.
Does a retaining wall need an engineer in Joliet?
Retaining walls exceeding 4 feet in retained height typically require design by a licensed structural engineer or architect under the adopted building code.
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