Retaining Walls: Boston vs Revere
How do retaining walls rules compare between Boston, MA and Revere, MA?
Revere has fewer restrictions than Boston.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Boston requires a building permit for any retaining wall over 4 feet tall measured from footing to top, and engineered drawings for walls over 4 feet or walls supporting a surcharge.
View full Boston rules →Revere, MA
Suffolk County
Retaining walls in Suffolk County require building permits when over 4 feet tall (measured bottom-of-footing to top-of-wall) or when supporting a surcharge, per 780 CMR 1807. Walls over 4 feet require stamped engineering. Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop Building Departments all enforce 780 CMR with local fee schedules.
View full Revere rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Revere |
|---|---|---|
| No Permit | Under 4 ft, no surcharge | - |
| Permit Trigger | Over 4 ft or any surcharge | - |
| PE Stamp | Required over 4 ft | - |
| Drainage | Weeps + drain pipe | Mandatory behind wall |
| Permit Threshold | - | Over 4 ft or with surcharge |
| State Code | - | 780 CMR 1807 |
| Engineer | - | Required over 4 ft |
| Wetlands | - | 100 ft Con Com review |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
Revere FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 3-foot garden wall?
Generally no, unless it supports a surcharge like a slope or driveway above, or falls within Conservation Commission jurisdiction.
Who enforces retaining walls rules in Suffolk County?
Suffolk County's code enforcement division is responsible for fences ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Suffolk County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
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