Retaining Walls: Burbank vs Pasadena
How do retaining walls rules compare between Burbank, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Burbank and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Retaining walls under 4 ft (bottom of footing to top) are permit-exempt unless supporting a surcharge. Front yard setback allows max 4 ft combined fence/retaining wall height. Only two retaining walls per front yard, min 8 ft apart (6 ft with Director approval). All downslope walls must be screened with vegetation.
View full Burbank rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Retaining walls up to 4 ft in Pasadena require a zoning permit. Taller retaining walls require a building permit and engineering. Hillside areas have additional design standards to blend structures into terrain per PMC Title 14 and Title 17.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Exempt | Under 4 ft, no surcharge | - |
| Front Yard Max | 4 ft combined wall + fence | - |
| Max Count | 2 retaining walls in front yard | - |
| Spacing | Min 8 ft apart (6 ft with approval) | - |
| Screening | Vegetation required on downslope face | - |
| Zoning Permit | - | Up to 4 ft |
| Building Permit | - | Over 4 ft |
| Hillside | - | Enhanced design standards |
| Engineering | - | Required for taller walls |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
In Burbank, walls over 4 feet typically require a building permit and engineered plans. Shorter walls may be exempt.
How close to the property line can I build a retaining wall?
Setback requirements vary. Check Burbank zoning code for specific distances from property lines.
Pasadena FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
In Pasadena, walls over 4 feet typically require a building permit and engineered plans. Shorter walls may be exempt.
How close to the property line can I build a retaining wall?
Setback requirements vary. Check Pasadena zoning code for specific distances from property lines.
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